Volvo XC90 Indicators Not Working? Here’s What Fixed Mine!

I still remember the first time my volvo xc90 indicators not working. I was stuck at a busy intersection, hand-signaling like it was 1985. Not fun—and not safe either.

Turn signals are more than just blinking lights. They help others know what you’re about to do. When they stop working, you lose that safety net. That’s why this isn’t something you want to ignore.

If your XC90’s indicators have gone dark or are acting weird, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. I’ll show you how to check what’s wrong, what parts might need replacing, and when it’s time to get help from a mechanic.

Common Causes of Indicator Failure in Volvo XC90

When my Volvo XC90’s turn signals first gave out, I assumed it was just a bad bulb. But as I dug in, I realized there were more possible culprits. Here’s a breakdown of the most common issues I’ve come across—and you might be dealing with one of these too.

Blown Fuse

This is one of the simplest things to check. Your XC90 has a fuse box that protects all kinds of electrical parts. If the turn signal fuse blows, your indicators will stop working. A quick look in your manual will show you which fuse controls the indicators.

Faulty Relay or Flasher Unit

The relay or flasher unit is like the heartbeat of your blinkers. If this part goes bad, the indicators might stop flashing or just stay on without blinking. Sometimes, they won’t turn on at all. It’s a small part, but it makes a big difference.

Malfunctioning Indicator Stalk or Switch

The stalk—the lever you use to turn your blinkers on—is another common failure point. Over time, it can wear out inside. You might notice the signal won’t stay on, or nothing happens when you flip the lever.

Wiring or Grounding Issues

Modern Volvos have complex wiring under the surface. A damaged wire or bad ground connection can interrupt the signal path. This is harder to see, but if everything else checks out, it’s worth a closer look.

Burnt-out Bulbs

Sometimes it really is as simple as a burnt-out bulb. But don’t just check the front. Your XC90 also has indicator bulbs on the back and even the side mirrors. One dead bulb can throw off the whole system.

CEM (Central Electronic Module) Faults

This one’s trickier. The CEM is like the brain of your XC90’s electrical system. If there’s a glitch or internal fault, it can cause weird issues—like indicators that work one moment and stop the next. You’ll usually need a scan tool to confirm this.

Volvo XC90 Indicators Not Working Photo
Volvo XC90 Indicators Not Working Photo

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

Now that you know what could be wrong, let’s go through how to check each part. I’ve done this process more than once, and these steps will help you figure things out without guesswork.

1. Locate and Inspect the Fuses

Start with the basics. Use your owner’s manual to find the fuse panel. In most XC90s, it’s under the glovebox or in the engine bay. Look for the fuse marked for “turn signals” or “indicators.” Pull it out and hold it up to the light. If the metal strip inside is broken, it’s blown. Replace it with one of the same amperage.

Tip: On some 2005–2012 models, the turn signals share a fuse with other lights. If those are out too, it’s likely the fuse.

2. Test the Turn Signal Relay or Flasher Unit

This part usually lives near the fuse box. Some models have it built into the CEM, while others use a separate relay. You can often hear or feel a clicking when your indicators are working. If there’s silence, the relay might be dead. Swap it with a known good one if possible.

3. Check Bulbs and Sockets

Walk around your XC90 and turn on the hazard lights. That activates all blinkers, so it’s a good way to test them at once. If one isn’t working, remove the cover and inspect the bulb. Look for dark spots or broken filaments. Also, check the socket—corrosion or moisture can cause issues.

4. Test the Indicator Stalk Switch

If the lights and fuse are fine, the stalk may be the problem. Turn it up and down slowly. Do the lights ever flash, even for a second? If they do, the contacts inside the stalk could be worn. Replacing it isn’t too hard, but you’ll need to remove the steering column cover.

5. Use an OBD-II Scanner for Electronic Faults

For anything deeper—like CEM faults—you’ll need a scanner. I use one that’s Volvo-compatible. Plug it into the port under the dashboard. If you see error codes related to lighting, indicators, or the CEM, that gives you a solid clue.

Note: Don’t ignore fault codes even if your indicators seem to work sometimes. These errors can show up before a full failure.

Quick Checks Before You Dive In

Before you grab your toolbox or panic about a big repair bill, let’s start with a few quick checks. These will help you narrow down what might be going on.

1. Are All Indicators Out or Just One Side?

If all four blinkers are out, the issue is likely electrical—maybe a fuse or relay. But if only one side isn’t working, you might just have a burnt-out bulb or a faulty stalk switch.

2. Do the Hazard Lights Still Work?

Turn on your hazard lights. If they blink, your bulbs and flasher unit are probably okay. That means the issue could be with the turn signal switch or wiring.

3. Do the Turn Signal Arrows Show on the Dashboard?

When you flip the indicator, check the dash. If the arrows light up but nothing blinks outside, it might be a wiring or bulb issue. If the arrows don’t light up at all, it could be a fuse or control module problem.

When to Replace Parts vs. Seek Professional Help

One of the hardest things I had to learn was knowing when to handle a fix myself and when to call in the pros. Some indicator issues on the Volvo XC90 are easy to tackle in your own garage. But others? They can turn into a deep rabbit hole fast. Here’s how I draw the line.

DIY-Friendly Fixes

If you’re even a little handy with tools, you can handle these at home:

  • Blown Fuses: These are cheap and easy to replace. You just need a fuse puller and your manual.
  • Burnt-Out Bulbs: Changing a bulb doesn’t take special skills. Just be gentle with the sockets.
  • Indicator Stalk Switch: If you’re comfortable removing a few trim panels, you can swap this out with basic tools.
  • Relays: Some relays pop right out. Others are tucked deeper. If yours is easy to access, it’s worth trying.

For these jobs, I usually spend under an hour and no more than $30. A stalk might run you closer to $70, but it’s still doable without fancy tools.

Signs You’re Dealing with a Deeper Issue

Here’s when I step back and call someone with the right gear:

  • CEM or Module Errors: If your scan tool pulls up codes for the central electronic module or lighting system, that’s dealer-level stuff. Volvo software needs special tools.
  • Intermittent Blinker Failures: If your indicators work one day and not the next, it could be a voltage drop, a grounding issue, or a wiring fault. These can take hours to trace.
  • Water Damage: If your fuse box or wiring shows signs of corrosion, it’s time to let a pro check for hidden damage.

Cost Expectations

Here’s a rough breakdown of parts and what they cost if you’re fixing things yourself:

PartAverage DIY CostShop/Dealer Cost
Fuse$2–$5$20–$50 with labor
Bulb$5–$15$30–$70 with install
Indicator Relay$10–$25$80–$150 installed
Stalk Switch$60–$90$150–$250 with labor
CEM DiagnosticsScanner Required$120–$180 per hour

If I’m not sure what the issue is after basic checks, I head to a Volvo specialist. It saves time—and stress.

Preventing Indicator Issues in the Future

I like to say: fix it once, then keep it fixed. After dealing with my XC90’s blinker trouble, I picked up a few habits to stop it from happening again. Here’s what I do now during regular upkeep.

Check Fuses During Routine Maintenance

Every time I change my oil or do a seasonal checkup, I take a minute to scan the fuses. It’s quick and gives me peace of mind. A weak fuse might not be blown yet, but checking helps me stay ahead.

Use Dielectric Grease on Sockets

This is one of my favorite tips. When I change a bulb, I dab a little dielectric grease on the socket. It keeps water and corrosion out and makes the bulb easier to remove later. Trust me—it’s worth the extra minute.

Watch for Water or Corrosion

Your XC90’s wiring doesn’t like moisture. If you see fogged lights, rusty connectors, or signs of water inside the tail lamp, dry things out right away. I once ignored this, and it led to a short a few months later.

Update Software During Service Visits

This one surprised me. Volvo often releases software updates that fix small bugs—including lighting and signal issues. During your regular service, ask the tech to check for updates. It’s a small thing, but it can solve weird glitches.

Volvo XC90 Indicators Not Working Photo
Volvo XC90 Indicators Not Working Photo

FAQ: Volvo XC90 Indicator Problems Answered

I’ve answered a lot of questions over the years from XC90 owners about their turn signals. If you’re dealing with weird blinker behavior, chances are you’ll find your answer here.

Q: Why are my Volvo XC90 indicators blinking fast?

Fast blinking usually means a bulb is out. It’s the car’s way of saying, “Hey, something’s wrong.” Check all the signal bulbs—front and rear. If they all look fine, it might be a loose socket or even a failing relay.

Q: My hazard lights work but turn signals don’t—what does that mean?

That’s a classic sign of a bad turn signal stalk or a faulty relay. Since the hazards use a different path than the stalk, the wiring for hazards can still work even when the stalk fails. I had this happen once, and replacing the stalk fixed it.

Q: Can a dead battery cause turn signals to fail?

Yes, it can. I’ve seen a weak battery cause all sorts of strange electrical glitches—including dead blinkers. If your signals are acting up along with other electronics, test your battery first. It’s a simple place to start.

Q: How do I know if my indicator stalk is faulty?

Here’s what I watch for:

  • Turn signals don’t respond or only work on one side.
  • The stalk feels loose or doesn’t “click” into place.
  • Wipers or high beams act up when using the signal.

If you spot any of these, the stalk might be the culprit. Thankfully, it’s one of the easier parts to replace.

Q: Are indicator issues common in older XC90s?

Yes, especially in models from the early 2000s. Over time, moisture, aging connectors, and wear on the stalk switch can all lead to signal problems. If your XC90 is over 10 years old, it’s smart to check these parts during routine maintenance.

Final Thoughts

If your Volvo XC90 indicators aren’t working, I hope this guide helped you feel more confident about what’s going on—and what to do next.

To recap:

  • Start with the basics: check fuses, bulbs, and connections.
  • Don’t ignore signs of water damage or loose wiring.
  • If things get too deep, a Volvo tech can run advanced diagnostics.

Most of the time, these problems aren’t as scary as they seem. I always tell friends to try a few easy checks first. You might save yourself a trip to the shop—and a big bill.

If you’ve dealt with indicator issues on your XC90, I’d love to hear what worked for you. Drop a comment, share your story, or ask a question. Let’s help each other keep these Volvos running like they should.

Author

  • Volvo Car With Man

    I’m Evans Torres, an automotive engineer who loves Volvo cars. I graduated in Automotive Engineering from USC. I have worked in the car industry for years and now share my knowledge on The Volvo Life. I started this blog to connect with other Volvo fans. I offer tips, news, and advice to help you care for your car. My goal is to help you keep your Volvo in great shape and find all the best things about it. Join me as we discover everything Volvo has to offer!

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