It is important that these lights are used appropriately so that other drivers are aware of their presence. There is a general understanding, when your car flashes its hazard lights, that other drivers are supposed to avoid your car because it is not moving.
You will be able to feel your car trying to tell you something — it needs your help — if your dashboard is flickering and flashing like a set of old holiday lights. The following is a list of what you need to know about flickering dash lights and how to fix them.
What Causes Dashboard Lights To Flicker When You’re Driving?
You may notice your dashboard lights flickering if your battery is dying. Your car’s electrical system relies on the battery for power.
There is a possibility that the dash lights will flicker if the battery isn’t working properly. The best thing you can do for your battery is to have your local auto shop test it and install a new battery if needed.
Additionally, flickering dash lights may indicate a problem with the alternator. When you drive, your car’s alternator distributes electricity throughout the car’s system and charges the battery.
Other than lighting up the dash and the headlights, the battery operates the electric power steering, power windows, windshield wipers, heated seats, audio system, and more.
All of the electronic components of your vehicle can be affected if the alternator is not charging the battery properly. Alternators that don’t function properly can cause flickering dashboard lights.
Having your alternator checked by a professional technician can provide you with the information you need to determine whether or not your alternator needs replacing or repairing. It is likely that the alternator is the source of flickering dash lights if your battery is new.
Resetting The Anti-Theft System
There is also the possibility that this could happen due to an anti-theft system. Whenever the battery is drained or replaced, the system usually needs to be reset. Here is how to do it.
Step 1
Make an attempt to start the vehicle. There will be a cranking sound, but it will not run. There will be flashing security lights. After 10 minutes, the security light will stay on or dim depending on whether the key is left in the run/on position.
Step 2
The key should be turned off for 10 seconds. Try starting the vehicle. In some cases, the vehicle will run at this point, but in others, you will have to repeat Step 1 twice. Each 10-minute cycle should be preceded by 10 seconds of the key being in the ‘off’ position.
Step 3
It is now time for the vehicle to relearn the proper code. During the next 10 seconds, turn the key off and then crank the engine. You should be able to run it now. Depending on your system, the security light may remain solid for several minutes.
In the event that this procedure does not help, a tow may be required for the vehicle along with all of the keys in order to have them reprogrammed at the dealership.
The Dashboard Lights Flicker And The Car Won’t Start
There is a good chance that the battery does not have enough charge to crank over the car if it won’t start and the dashboard lights are flickering.
Your battery may need to be replaced in this scenario. Among the other possible causes of flickering dash lights when your car won’t start are:
- Control modules that are defective
- Ignition switch malfunction
- Battery cables that are dirty or loose
- An alternator failure has resulted in a bad battery
Flickering Headlights And Dash Lights: What Are They Telling You?
It is more than likely that the alternator is worn out when both the headlights and dashboard lights flicker.
It is usually necessary to replace an alternator that has worn out. The best approach to repairing the alternator can be determined by an expert technician. You can also tell if an alternator is bad by looking for these signs:
- If the alternator has seized, you will smell burning rubber
- Noises such as growling or whining
- Stalls frequently
- The car won’t start
- Accessories that do not work or are slow to work
- Lights that are too dim or too bright
- Battery warning light illuminated
Why Are The Emergency Flashers Activating On Their Own?
It is possible that one of the electrical components may be faulty if your hazard lights malfunction after you jump-start your vehicle. Electrical relays control the flashers by switching them on and off the power.
A malfunctioning electrical relay within the vehicle can cause hazard lights to illuminate. Turn signal and flasher relays are used to wire emergency lights.
In some cases, one relay controls both functions, which are usually located in the fuse panel in the engine bay. Using a multimeter, you can determine if they are working properly by inspecting and testing them.
The lights may be coming on because of some sort of wiring issue that has occurred, possibly an electrical short somewhere.
In addition, there may be a problem with the turn signal or hazard switches themselves, perhaps an internal problem. My recommendation would be to have your vehicle inspected by a professional technician if you are unsure.
The Bottom Line
You should never leave any electrical device in your vehicle for long periods of time, including headlights, radios, and door pins.
It is possible to have problems with these things if they continue to run when your vehicle’s motor is off. Batteries are depleted in 5-10 minutes when emergency flashers are used. Don’t forget to take care of this.
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