Porsche 993: Why Does My Turn Signal Stay on Solid When Car is Off?

If you notice your turn signals staying on in the Porsche 993 even when the car is off, then you'll want to get the problem fixed as soon as possible. This issue can potentially drain your battery. Read on to learn about the top causes and solutions of this problem.

By Arthur Guerrero - May 4, 2015

This article applies to the Porsche 993 (1993-1998).

A Porsche 993 is a great car, but even great cars have occasional issues. One such issue is turn signal lights staying on solid, even when the car is shut off. This issue can potentially drain your battery. If you don't drive your car everyday, then expect your battery to be drained by the next time you choose to drive it again. This article diagnoses the most common fixes for faulty turn signal lights in your 993.

Step 1 – Make sure your turn signal lever is on the neutral position

As simple as this may sound, it wouldn't be surprising if this was at the root of your problem. The common advice good mechanics give is to start with the easiest solutions first. In this case, the easiest solution would be to make sure your turn signal lever is on the neutral position.

Figure 1. Turn signal assembly.

Pro Tip

It is also possible that your turn signal lever is not working properly (there may be a shortage), but this is unlikely.

If your turn signal lever position is good, try the next step.

Step 2 – Check the turn signal relay

The turn signal relay might be bad. Inspect it and replace it if you conclude that it needs replacing. It is a good idea to have the relay tested at an auto electric shop to verify that the relay does need replacing. With a problem like this, you won't regret getting a professional opinion.

Figure 2. Turn signal relay.

Pro Tip

The turn signal relay is located under the VIN plate, in the lower (driver's) left corner of the windshield. It is accessed via the luggage compartment.

If your relay is good, move on to the last step.

Step 3 – Replace the main alarm control unit

This is the most common solution to this sort of problem. Be ready, because replacing the main alarm control unit is pricey. It is located under the passenger seat. More than likely, the relays inside are getting stuck. When this starts to happen, it needs to be replaced.

Figure 3. This is the alarm control unit to look for.

Pro Tip

You can confirm that this is the issue by tapping on the unit with a metal tool. If the lights go off, then you have found your problem. If the lights stay on, it still has potential to be your problem, so don't completely write it off.

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