Turn Signal Light

What Are Turn Signal Lights?

Turn signal lights — commonly called blinkers — are one of the most critical safety components on any vehicle. Your car's turn signal light lets other drivers know when you plan on making your next move, keeping them from rear-ending you. There is a good reason that forward and rear turn signal lights come standard on all modern cars — these signals are essential for letting other drivers, as well as pedestrians and bicyclists, know which way you are headed and whether they will need to slow down or stop.

Types of Turn Signal Lights

Turn signal systems come in several forms depending on vehicle design and location on the car:

• Front turn signal assemblies – Typically mounted in or near the headlight housing, often emitting amber light to signal upcoming turns or lane changes.
• Rear turn signal assemblies – Integrated into the tail light cluster, alerting following drivers of your intended direction.
• Side mirror turn signals – If your car or SUV has turn signals built into the side mirrors, you may be able to access their bulbs directly there.
• Side marker / corner lights – Mounted on the fenders or corners of the vehicle for additional lateral visibility.
• Turn signal bulbs – Individual replacement bulbs, available in standard incandescent, natural amber glass, and LED formats. Natural amber glass bulbs deliver a vivid, true amber light without relying on external coatings that can chip or fade, ensuring long-lasting color integrity.

Signs Your Turn Signal Needs Replacement

A failing turn signal is more than an annoyance — it's a safety and legal hazard. Common warning signs include a turn signal that flashes abnormally fast (hyper-flashing), one that doesn't illuminate at all, or a lens that has become cracked, yellowed, or moisture-damaged. A cracked, faded, or failed assembly due to moisture infiltration or collision damage is a reliable indicator that replacement is needed. If you find a discolored bulb or a burnt filament inside it, it's likely damaged and needs to be replaced — take care of it as soon as possible, as it can mean the difference between driving safely and getting ticketed.

OEM vs. Aftermarket Turn Signal Lights

When shopping for a replacement turn signal, one of the first decisions is whether to go OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or aftermarket. OEM parts are made to the exact factory specification of your vehicle and guarantee a precise fit, while quality aftermarket assemblies offer a cost-effective alternative with broad vehicle coverage. Keep in mind that the total cost of a new turn signal will depend on the make, model, and year of your vehicle, as well as mounting positions and whether your signal assembly is a single unit or a combination of a front or rear lighting assembly. For luxury European vehicles in particular, OEM parts can be worth the investment to maintain the vehicle's original performance standards.

Top Turn Signal Light Brands

For Mercedes-Benz owners, Genuine Mercedes turn signal lights are the gold standard. Genuine Mercedes-Benz parts fit your vehicle like no others can — they're engineered specifically to function with their fellow parts and systems, constructed from the finest materials available, and subjected to rigorous testing so each part comes fully certified, ensuring your vehicle performs up to its potential mile after mile.