How to Replace Your Turn Signal Relay in a Nissan Altima

An excellent way to limit the amount of money you pay to the auto mechanic is to do some of the easier task your car requires on your own. Replacing the turn signal relay in your Nissan Altima is just such an assignment. It requires only an ability to use a screwdriver and the ability to follow a simple set of directions.

Instructions

1

Find the relay cluster panel on your Nissan Altima. Your owner's manual may call this area intelligent power distribution module engine room for electric relays or IPDM E/R for short, on some models of the Nissan Altima. The panel is underneath and to the left of the steering column.

2

Use a screwdriver to remove the relay panel. Depending on the year model, you may need a flathead to pry the panel open or a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screws from the panel.

3

Look on the diagram on the underside of the relay panel to locate the turn signal relay.

4

Remove the defective turn signal relay and replace it with the new one. The old relay should simply pop out and the new relay should slide right in place. However, you need to be careful, as you can damage the other relays and fuses in the vicinity, if the removal is too forceful.

5

Check to verify that the turn signal relay functions properly. Turn on the engine of the Nissan Altima and activate the turn signal. If it still doesn't work, make sure you seated the new relay securely. Replace the relay panel and dispose of the old turn signal relay, if the repair was a success.