How to Clean a Turn Signal Socket

Moisture is the enemy of auto electrics.

Electrical contacts are designed to withstand corrosion, but they are not impervious to it. Just like electrical wire connectors, sockets that hold turn signals and running lights can get a buildup of corrosion. Anti-corrosive coating on the socket metal may have gotten scratched, or it may be a part of the bulb that rusted and deposited the corrosion.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver
• Electrical contact cleaner
• Shop rag
• Steel wool
• Electrical contact grease

Instructions

1. Remove the entire turn signal assembly for inspection. You want to confirm that the problem is just a little moisture and subsequent corrosion or grime, not a more serious electrical failure.

2. Inspect the housing, after removing the lens with a screwdriver. Look for burn marks from a short, as well as places where moisture may have leaked into the housing.

3. Spray electrical contact cleaner into the disconnected socket. Alternatively, you can spray white vinegar into the socket. If there is significant grime or corrosion, give it a thorough soaking and let it sit for at least 10 minutes.

4. Wipe the corrosion, residue and any grime out of the socket with a paper or cloth shop rag with a twisting motion of your fingertip. You may have to repeat this process to get all of the corrosion.

5. Buff the inside of the socket lightly with steel wool and the cleaner of your choice if corrosion remains after wiping it with a rag. Use the same fingertip twisting motion.

6. Apply a light coat of electrical contact grease. Use a shop rag for application, as there may be sharp edges in the socket. The contact lubricant will help prevent future corrosion and need for cleaning.

Tips & Warnings

• While you have the socket assembly disassembled, look for the cause of the problem -- usually vapor getting into the assembly. Seal any cracks or small holes with RVT silicon. Clean the inside of the lens and any reflective surfaces thoroughly with vinegar or glass cleaner.

• If you see signs of burn marks from sparking, consider testing the wiring to the socket with an ohm meter, or multimeter, to make sure it is within specification. If there is any damage from sparking, consider replacing the unit.

References

• Auto Tips 101: Cleaning Oxidation from Electrical Connections
• RC Electronics: AX7-C Connector Lubricant, Contact Lubricant, Corrosion Inhibitor and Anti-corrosion Protectant
• Atlantic Z Car Club: Low Voltage Electrical Connection Cleaning