A Guide to the Hazard and Turn Signal Flasher Relay for the 2003-2008 Honda Element
Fix non-working turn signals or hazard lights on your Element by understanding this common failure point.
- The turn signal relay and hazard flasher are the same part in the 2003-2008 Element.
- Failure symptoms include lights not working at all, lights staying on without flashing, or intermittent operation.
- This is an extremely easy DIY repair that takes less than 15 minutes and requires no tools.
- Always check your fuses and bulbs first to rule out simpler problems before replacing the relay.
Is Your Element's Flasher Relay Failing?
If your turn signals or hazard lights have stopped working, started working intermittently, or stay on without flashing, the flasher relay is a likely culprit. This is a common point of failure, but it's also one of the easiest and cheapest repairs you can perform on your vehicle. Before replacing the relay, it's always a good idea to check for simpler issues first.
Check Fuses and Bulbs First
Always check the simple things before buying parts. Make sure the fuse for the turn signal circuit isn't blown (Fuse #19 in the under-dash fuse box). 🎬 See this guide to the Honda Element fuse box Also, walk around your vehicle and confirm that all turn signal bulbs are working. 🎬 Watch: How to replace your rear turn signal bulbs A single burnt-out bulb can sometimes cause the signals to flash very rapidly, a condition known as "hyper-flashing," which is different from a complete failure caused by a bad relay.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Flasher Relay
For the 2003-2008 Honda Element, the original flasher relay was made by Omron for Honda. While you can purchase an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part from a dealer, a new aftermarket relay is a perfectly reliable and cost-effective choice for this component. Brands like Standard Ignition (Standard Motor Products) and True Tech produce direct-fit replacements designed to match the original part's form and function. Since a flasher relay is a simple electrical switch, the quality of reputable aftermarket brands is generally very good and offers significant savings over the OEM price.
Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs
There are no official recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for a faulty hazard flasher relay on the 2003-2008 Honda Element. However, there is a related safety recall that owners should be aware of. NHTSA recall #12V-436 addresses an incorrectly wired accessory trailer hitch harness on some 2007-2008 Elements. This wiring issue could prevent the trailer's turn signals from working correctly. This problem is with the accessory harness, not the vehicle's flasher relay itself.
DIY Replacement Guide
Replacing the flasher relay is a great job for a DIYer. It requires no special tools and can be done in minutes.
- Locate the Relay: The turn signal and hazard relay is in the fuse box under the driver's side of the dashboard.
- Identify the Relay: It is plugged into socket RL4. It's a small black or gray box.
- Remove and Replace: The relay is held in by clips. You may need to gently pry the retaining clips back to pull the old relay straight out. Push the new relay firmly into the same socket until it clicks into place.
- Test: Turn the key and test your left and right turn signals and your hazard lights to confirm they are working correctly.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket (Standard, True Tech) | $27 - $34 |
| New OEM (Honda) | $30 - $70 |
| Used OEM | $10 - $25 |
| Shop Labor | $50 - $125 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do my turn signals work sometimes and not others?
Intermittent failure is a classic symptom of a failing relay. The internal components of the relay can wear out and make a poor connection. Sometimes, restarting the car can temporarily restore function, but the problem will likely become more frequent until the relay fails completely.
My turn signals light up but don't blink. Is that the relay?
Yes, this is a very common sign of a bad flasher relay. The relay has failed in the "on" position, allowing power to go to the bulbs but failing to cycle it on and off to create the flash.
Is the turn signal relay the same as the hazard flasher?
Yes, on the Honda Element and many other vehicles, a single relay controls both the turn signals and the hazard warning lights. They are not separate parts.
My lights are blinking too fast. Is that the relay?
Usually, no. Rapid blinking (hyper-flash) is the car's way of telling you that a turn signal bulb has burned out. The change in electrical resistance from the dead bulb causes the relay to flash quickly. If you've recently installed LED bulbs, you may also experience hyper-flashing, which requires a special LED-compatible flasher relay.
🎬 Watch: How to install LED bulbs and fix hyper-flashingHelpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 38300-SDB-A03 38300-SDA-A03
Controls both turn signal and hazard light functions. Located in the under-dash fuse/relay box, position RL4.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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