Fast Blinker on 2003 VW Conv, 2.0L

[schlabsg]

Hi,
My wife's 2003 VW Conv started having a fast blinker, first on the right, then both. All bulbs are ok and I found the posts that suggested some WD40 by the blinker arm where it connects to the column or to replace the hazard/flasher relay/switch (great post on that one -- it was easy to follow and I replaced the switch pretty quickly). However, I tired both and neither one cleared up the fast blinker issue. Any other thoughts as to what it could be before I take it in?

Thanks,
greg

[KNEWBUG]

Had same problem with left front turn signal, replaced bulb, problem came back again. I bent the tabs that makes contact with bottom of bulb out towards the base of the bulb, have not had problem since. Hope this helps.

[schlabsg]

Thanks knewbug...cleaning and bending the contacts worked like a charm. Wish I would have done that first, but when both blinkers went out at the same time, figured it had to be the hazard relay (I did leave the new one in since you can't return electronic parts at the dealer). At any rate -- thanks since I wasn't sure where to turn next. If anyone has the same issues with the turn signals, I'd do:

1) Replace bulbs (if necessary...mine were ok)
2) Clean and bend the contacts on the front blinkers (thanks knewbug)
3) WD40 by the turn signal (saw it in a forum, not sure how much it helps)
4) Replace the hazard relay/switch (tribangle has a great HOW TO withi pictures...it is pretty easy:
HOW TO: Hazard Relay Replacement (turn signals and hazards not working)

Thanks to the folks in this forum for all the assistance and saving me alot of $$...

greg

[mlt]

For the sake of completeness, it can also be caused by dirt in turn signal lever How-To: Flakey Turn Signal Clicking Fix. - TDIClub Forums . Though usually it has irregular pattern.

[Duffy]

This is also a solution for the brake and tail lights dimming or acting erratic. Clean and bend inward the brass circular contact (ground) to make a much tighter contact with the bulb's shell.