Recall on Hazard switch! (2000-2001)

[sunrunner_pei]

Make: PONTIAC
Model: GRAND AM
Year: 2000-2001
Recall Number: 03V327000

Summary:
CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES HAVE HAZARD WARNING SWITCHES THAT MAY EXPERIENCE SOLDER JOINT CRACKING CAUSED BY RAPID TEMPERATURE TRANSITIONS AND THE SOLDERING PROCESS. IF SOLDER JOINT CRACKING OCCURS AND RESULTS IN AN OPEN CIRCUIT, THE TURN SIGNALS/HAZARD LAMPS BECOME INTERMITTENT OR INOPERATIVE.

Consequence:
WHEN THE TURN SIGNALS ARE INOPERATIVE, THE DRIVER CANNOT USE THEM TO SIGNAL INTENT TO TURN THAT COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.

Remedy:
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE HAZARD WARNING SWITCH. OWNER NOTIFICATION IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING THE SECOND QUARTER OF 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438, PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668, OR OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-630-6537.

Notes:
GM RECALL NO. 03043. CUSTOMERS CAN ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION’S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).

[Aaron]

Yeah, I have an 01 and when I'm using my turn signals, they stop working every once in a while but if I hit the area right above the hazard switch, they start to work again. I'm going to my dealer for my freebie :)

[illsmokeyou]

2004??? WTF? a year from now??? good god, nowonder why things never get settled with those manifold gasket problems. The recall would be right about 2005, after the majority of us got rid of the old grand ams anyhow :(

[mtnagel]

Originally posted by illsmokeyou
2004??? WTF? a year from now??? good god, nowonder why things never get settled with those manifold gasket problems. The recall would be right about 2005, after the majority of us got rid of the old grand ams anyhow :( That's exactly what I was thinking. What could possibly take them almost a year to get out the notices?

What about the people that have had this fixed? And what about someone who hasn't had this problem (like me)? Should I take it in or wait till I have the problem?

Matthew

[2001GAGT]

Originally posted by mtnagel
That's exactly what I was thinking. What could possibly take them almost a year to get out the notices?

What about the people that have had this fixed? And what about someone who hasn't had this problem (like me)? Should I take it in or wait till I have the problem?

Matthew

1. If some one has had the problem fixed and it was out of warranty (Customer paid out of pocket) Contact your dealer of GM and infor them but BE prepared to provide PROOF.

2. When the recall is out there will be a listing of what VIN #'s it will apply to.

[2K GRAND]

It's about damn time. how long have we been talking back and forth about this problem? Is the recall in effect now or do we have to wait for the notices next year to get it fixed? I got lucky, I rigged it to make it work long enough to pass my state inspection. I was holding my breath nervously as the mech. checked for the signal lights.
Once again thanks for the news, I think one of the reason I keep my GA is because I know I can get all the info I need here at the club.:thumbup2:

[BBT]

The length of time may reflect how long it will take to engineer a replacement and have enough stock to do the recalls. My wife's Alero is just starting to have this propblem. She just taps the hazard switch and the signals come back. A permanent fix will be appreciated.

[2K GRAND]

I do the same thing, tapping the hazard switch, to the point it is just habit. Sometimes the signals work and I tap the switch and cut them off before I realize they're working,

[MysteriousGT1]

Oh...I see how it is...Wait until I don't have the GA anymore to Issue this...That Hazard switch thing was a Pain in my Azz and I even got a Ticket because of it! :2up:

Oh well! :D

[Gravey]

This just started happening to me in august! zoinks!!! I am the second owner of this vehicle with no factory warranty left. Am I SOL? that TSB about the scratched up windows apparently did not apply to me due to the fact that I was 2nd owner and no original warranty remained...

[Gimli]

Originally posted by Gravey
This just started happening to me in august! zoinks!!! I am the second owner of this vehicle with no factory warranty left. Am I SOL? that TSB about the scratched up windows apparently did not apply to me due to the fact that I was 2nd owner and no original warranty remained...

TSBs and recalls are two separate things.

Recalls are serviced at no charge by the dealers throughout the life of the vehicle because they're safety related.

TSBs are only a way for GM to tell the dealers how to fix common problems.

[BBT]

Originally posted by Gravey
This just started happening to me in august! zoinks!!! I am the second owner of this vehicle with no factory warranty left. Am I SOL? that TSB about the scratched up windows apparently did not apply to me due to the fact that I was 2nd owner and no original warranty remained...

'Zoinks!'? :biggrin: You left out a 'Gadzooks!'......:roflmfao:

[Gravey]

Originally posted by Gimli
TSBs and recalls are two separate things.

Recalls are serviced at no charge by the dealers throughout the life of the vehicle because they're safety related.

TSBs are only a way for GM to tell the dealers how to fix common problems.



GADZOOKS!!! :evil2: I guess that's why you're the service manual guy!!!

[Gene]

I came to this forum looking for a solution to this very problem. Does anyone have a more permanent solution than flicking the hazard switch? I mean, other than waiting for the recall? Is taking the hazard switch apart and re-soldering it reasonably feasible? Has anyone tried that?

Gene

[Gimli]

The way the switch is made it's pretty tough to take apart and rebuild.

If you're having a problem and you're on warranty you don't have to wait for the recall. It's a known problem and they'll fix it.

If you have the problem and are not covered by the warranty anymore apparently dealers have been told to still service it free of charge and claim it when the official recall is released.

Worst case scenario you can pay to have it changed and reclaim it once the recall is issued, there's always a procedure to have previously paid repairs related to a recall paid back.

[USMCspy]

I had this problem with my car at about 28000 miles on her. But she was under warrenty so the problem was fixed.

[BBT]

How long under warranty would this problem be covered? My wife's 2001 Alero is still under factory warranty. Would they charge her for it to be fixed?

[USMCspy]

No charge if it's under warrenty, that's what it's there for....To fix all the screwy things that they did at assembly

[DaveRain]

This is very good news....my blinkers have been working on and off since i bought my car!

[Mista_IBN]

I got mine fixed already. At first, they said that the part wasn't available. But, they called me back and said they did. Got it fixed like a couple of weeks ago. From what they tell me, warranty has nothing to do with recall. My car's been out of warranty.

[sunrunner_pei]

Recalls are a seperate issue from warranty. It's not uncommon to see very old cars being recalled, since recalls are almost always for safety-related complaints.

TSBs on the other hand only apply when you're covered under warranty. :)

[SteveGT1]

Thats pretty damn funny. I had that problem about 2 months ago. I purchased the switch from my local GM dealer and then replaced myself. Ohh my.

[Gimli]

Originally posted by SteveGT1
Thats pretty damn funny. I had that problem about 2 months ago. I purchased the switch from my local GM dealer and then replaced myself. Ohh my.

If you kept the receipt you can get a refund under the recall rules.

[Street-racer]

Originally posted by illsmokeyou
2004??? WTF? a year from now??? good god, nowonder why things never get settled with those manifold gasket problems. The recall would be right about 2005, after the majority of us got rid of the old grand ams anyhow :(

can you guys tell me more about this stuff. Would that cause the car to shift kind of not smoothly and hesitate a lot when launching?

[Gimli]

The recall is now in Transport Canada's database so the letters to Canadian owners should be in the mail:
http://www.tc.gc.ca/roadsafety/recalls/recall_e.asp?recno=11282&

[SteveGT1]

Damn, I wish I had my bill. I think I paid 50 dollars for the part

[S8ER95Z]

Can't Delete my post..but I found my answer. Thanks

[Madman]

i already had this problem, and they replaced it last year under waranty. just hope that they didnt install another defective one.

[unsober]

yeah, well i'm having the same problem on my 2000. HOWEVER, i called pontiac and they the recall doesnt apply to my vin. WTF, it doesnt work, you know about the problem. just fix it already. so blah blah blah....if they ever recall for my vin, i'll get reimbursed. i gave her my discreet finger to the phone and said have a nice day. :o

do you have the part number for it? is it just the switch?

[unsober]

I just saw in another thread that someone took out the hazard light, sprayed the inside with electrical contact cleanser and it does the trick. i'm going to give this a shot first, and i'll let ya'll know if it works.....if not i'll have to buy the part.

[unsober]

well the guy said wd-40 might also work, so i looked around for that.....found some 3 in 1 household oil, thought i'd give it a shot. (lubricates, "cleans", and polishs. and WOOO it worked. this is what i did....

took off the cover (theres a post somewhere about this)
unattached the ets and hazard lights
dripped a little 3 in 1 on the prongs, put it back in...didnt work
dripped a little in the holes where the prongs go in...didnt work

then slid put the prongs in and out of the holes a dozen+ times.
tried the hazards...worked, tried the blinkers worked....drove around for 30 minutes (making lots o turns) worked the entire time..... YAY

if you cant get it working the first time, i recommend trying it a few times before you go out and buy the part or go to the dealership.

i'll post back here in a couple days and let you know if its still working.

[unsober]

ok i started to have problems again....if you tap on the hazard switch it helps, but i didnt want to do that. i went to the dealership and got the hazard switch for 35ish. easy install. works with no problems now.

[Goldfever]

I just got this recall today for my 2000 SE. I have never had a problem with the blinkers, but I am gonna go get it fixed anyway.

[Grandam02chick]

hey would this include the 2002 grand am's ?since 99 to 03 are the same basically ?

[sunrunner_pei]

Originally posted by Grandam02chick
hey would this include the 2002 grand am's ?since 99 to 03 are the same basically ?

No. The design of the hazard switch is different. The recall is only for 2000 and 2001 models.

[Saber69]

Yup! I just got this today in the mail woohoo!! Can't wait to get my freebie!! haha

[Toutsuu]

Anyone have this problem on a 2.4? Mine has not had a problem with the blinkers and it seems that no other 2.4 owners have the same problem either. But you'd think it would be the same in either car.

[sjasner]

So the switch is different on 2002's, but some of us are having the same problem. So then, how do we correct it without out-of-pocket exhaust?

[azeniskid]

I'm having the damn switch go crazynuts... it doesn't turn my blinkers on just the damn clicking sound over and over and over and over and over and over...........

[Gravey]

Still haven't received my recall notice... :(

[Street-racer]

its not only 00 to 01 my 02 broke just the same way.

[olddieselguy]

Poeple this is a recall. Call your dealer if your car fits in this vin breakpoint! 2000
Pontiac
Grand Am
YC535849
YC568892

YM792549
YM886948

2001
Pontiac
Grand Am
1C100008
1C250906

1M500001
1M648029
Chevy Malibu's and Oldsmobile Aleros are part of this recall also.
When you work for a dealer, you learn more about recalls. If you have bought this part and installed it allready. You may be entitled for a rembursment. This can be hard to do. It must have been done at a dealer before, and must have a valid recept!

[dearim]

OT, but... Welcome, olddieselguy! Glad you finally joined up, Kim!

[02GARacer]

my turning siginals down work once and a while, (only at night) lmao

and i got a 2002

[Brazzer22StL]

wtf! I just got off the phone with the lady at the service department at the local Pontiac dealer and apparently my car is not one of the one's being recalled, even though it is a 2000 grand am and my turn signals are NOT working. What should I do? Go in and have it fixed or just ***** to Pontiac and see if I can get something going?

[otter007]

i've had my hazard switch replaced twice in one week!!!

[AeR0]

im in the same boat dude... i got a 99 grand am and its pullin this crap too


so i dont know waht to do my latest solution has been to just turn the radio up!
lol

[Grand_Damn]

i went and sent in my reimbursement papers...i had to pay $160 to get it fixed and only got backi got $115 back...thats $45...grrrr.

[Moofert]

Man, I freaking went in like 2 years ago, cuz it had this problem, and I kept asking the GM people if it could be the Hazard switch causing this problem, cuz when the signals didn't work, if i played with that button, they would come on. And they kept saying "Let us hook it up and do a diagnostic test"... WTF?!?! HOW WILL THAT DO ANYTHING? But anyway, then they referred me to their senior level technician, who was a facking receptionist?!?!

Tards.. .So I went and bought the thing for like $140 or something stupid like that, and replaced it. No problems. Then I get the recall notice in the mail. I went in to GM and they told me that they couldn't refund my money without a receipt. So I'm pooched. On the other hand, I have a working hazard signal button, that if anyone wants to buy off of me, they can have it for cheap?!?! Don't suppose I will be needing 2 of them.

[DieselOne]

:D :lots: I've contacted Pontiac only to find out that my GA is not in the VIN Group associated with the recall. I find it hard to believe that of all the vehicles I've had and have driven that never had any problem with hazards or turn signals, that the one time it happens to me my dealer tells me that it is not associated with a current recall that involves turn signals....and hazard switches. Everyone keeps HINTING that if I pay out of pocket for the repair I'll be reimbursed later in the next phaze of the recall. I'd rather raise heck and get a petition going of all those who are having the problem but aren't "associated with the VIN Group" in the recall. Nothing will be done to add "VIN Group's" to the recall until enough people complain. The explanation I received stated that the recall is indicative of the plant that vehicle was assembled. I feel they are trying to limit the scope of the problem. (can't help but think...never had a problem getting recalls corrected on foreign cars I've had; keep that in mind for my next purchase). Please, pass the word around to make them aware of this problem -- Malibu's and Alero's are also part of the recall. Please, if you are having problems with your Hazards, don't continue to beat your dash!! Beat some brows!!! :chair: :chair: :chair: Call EACH of these numbers and report the problem so that none of us will have to pay out of pocket for a defect:

Pontiac Safety Hotline:
1-866-952-4368 ext#58673 or 1-800-620-7668(mainline)
(ask for Christopher)

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Hotline
1-888-327-4236



HAVE YOUR VIN# READY AND MAKE SURE YOU ASK FOR A SERVICE REQUEST # FROM THE PONTIAC LINE SO THAT YOU WILL KNOW THE COMPLAINT WAS REGISTERED!!!!!!!

[01GrandAmGT]

I haven't had any problems with my turn signals in the inside, I suppose they are working on the outside because people go to stop and I haven't had any flip offs or anything.

I've already received my paper in the mail but I swear I'm really getting sick of taking this car to the shop.

[BBT]

Wife is still waiting for her recall notice. 2001 Alero (same recall I believe).

[01GrandAmGT]

Geez, I received my'n like back in early March.

[EKling]

Does this still count when your car has a salvage title?

[tigerfist]

Hi.... hope someone can help.......i own a 2000 grand am se and i got the hazard switch replaced through the recall....... it works but the switch continues to tick intermittently and endlessly AFTER the indicator and hazard lights come off. Their lights on the intrument panel does not come on....just the ticking sound from the switch continues. All suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

[Grand_Damn]

Originally posted by tigerfist
Hi.... hope someone can help.......i own a 2000 grand am se and i got the hazard switch replaced through the recall....... it works but the switch continues to tick intermittently and endlessly AFTER the indicator and hazard lights come off. Their lights on the intrument panel does not come on....just the ticking sound from the switch continues. All suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

bring it in...i think they messed up somewhere...either that or they placed a bad switch into yours...or they didnt do anything but said they did

[Brazzer22StL]

This is getting to be ridiculous. My blinkers have almost entirely stopped working. I have to smack the dash to make them work. I have called the dealership and they say that my car is not in the recall. I need to do something now or I'm going to get nailed by someone when I'm turning and my blinkers aren't working.

[Gimli]

Originally posted by Brazzer22StL
This is getting to be ridiculous. My blinkers have almost entirely stopped working. I have to smack the dash to make them work. I have called the dealership and they say that my car is not in the recall. I need to do something now or I'm going to get nailed by someone when I'm turning and my blinkers aren't working.

Exactly. Get it fixed and keep the receipt.

[Merlyn]

Originally posted by tigerfist
Hi.... hope someone can help.......i own a 2000 grand am se and i got the hazard switch replaced through the recall....... it works but the switch continues to tick intermittently and endlessly AFTER the indicator and hazard lights come off. Their lights on the intrument panel does not come on....just the ticking sound from the switch continues. All suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

Actually, the contacts inside the steering column is dirty, and still making contact. I had the same issue on my '01, and I just took it apart, and cleaned it up with a little rubbing alcohol, and haven't had a problem since.

[tgd]

Well at least I know I'm not alone with this faulty hazzard switch. I think I'm going
to try takin it in to the shop and see if they won't go ahead and fix it. I still have not received a letter of recall on that IGN. problem I think they have to replace a wire or
add a wire or somthing. you guys know what I'm talking about? Owners where have
-ing problems w/starting there cars. and they said if your car does'nt start don't hold
it in the start postion or you could burn something up. Maybe they have to add a relay I'm not real sure but, when I take it in I'm going to have them fix that too.

[kels1216]

I have a 2002 grand am.. My blinkers and hazard lights still work. My problem is that behind my hazard light comes a ticking noise. It sounds just like the turn signal sound but speed the ticking up X2. Is this recall they are talking about related to the same thing. I have called GM and they tell me know they have never heard of it. Love to find out more.

[Gimli]

Nope, the "phantom clicking" is usually caused by dirty/corroded contacts between the flasher control arm and the wiring in the steering column.

[kels1216]

Could this be the reason why my steering column smokes the odd time?

[Gimli]

Most certainly...

[AeR0]

it smokes???


yucky!!


id get it into your dealership soon!!

[kels1216]

I have taken it to the dealership. The took the steering coloum apart and said they could find nothing wrong.

[lash92ssei]

Originally posted by sunrunner_pei
Make: PONTIAC
Model: GRAND AM
Year: 2000-2001
Recall Number: 03V327000

Remedy:
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE HAZARD WARNING SWITCH. OWNER NOTIFICATION IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING THE SECOND QUARTER OF 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438, PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668, OR OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-630-6537.

Notes:
GM RECALL NO. 03043. CUSTOMERS CAN ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION’S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).

Just thought I'd let everyone know about the latest with the above mentioned recall. Today I got a call from my local dealer after I dropped my car (2000 Grand Am) off to have the turn signals repaired because of the hazard switch problem. Seems that my car's vin # was not included in the recall, even though it was same year and same problem. Well I called Pontiac at the number above:

I was told to submit my repair bill to Pontiac and they would let me know if they would cover the repair or not. Seems that my vehicle was not covered because "it was not assembled with the vin #'s listed for the recall," even though I had the same problem listed in the recall.

So for those of you who either have or are about to have this problem fixed, this is what Pontiac will tell you to do if your vin# is not listed in the recall;

submit your repair bill showing you paid to have problem corrected to the following address:

Pontiac
P.O. Box 33172
Det. MI 48232

Also call the number for the NHTSA listed above if your vehicle was not listed in the recall to file a complaint. If enough of us call they will list other vehicles in the recall.

[nmcgrawj]

my friend has a 99 grand am. Not sure if it would be able to fall under the recall depending on when it was built, but her hazards do not work but her turn signals do.

Just wondering if there were any other causes besides this recall and how much did it cost? Just wondering if they do not re-imburse her how much she has to spend.

Thanks

[digitalquirk]

For those of you who have had your turn signals fail for whatever reason, this is a reminder that on your driving test, part of it included knowing the hand signals for signalling left turn, right turn, and stop. You are required by law to use these hand signals you had to learn when you got your license should your turn signal lights fail for any reason; even if one of them is burned out. For those of you who have forgotten these hand signals, here is a reminder:

Left turn: left arm pointing out horizontally left out your driver's window.
Right turn: Left arm pointing up to the sky out the driver's window.
Stop: Left arm pointing down to the ground out the driver's window.

Pretty simple, really...my 5 year old practices these signals when riding his bike (with training wheels, no less). If my 5 year old can do it, I'm fairly confident that most of you can as well.

[kage]

Hi, I just financed a 2000 Grand Am Se1 two days ago, and already ran across this forum twice off google searching how to fix a few errors, the first fix was for the stereo theft lock, and now seems my turn signals want to work some of the time and not the others..

when i hit the switch to turn them on "either direction" they do not work at all, they do not show in the display as working and they are not working on the outside either. Im not sure how this recall business works but i was posting to see if the recall information posted here covers the problem im having..

my brother which is a mechanic told me the problem may be my flasher is going out on me that I could buy one at the auto parts store for a few bucks and replace it myself.. but none of the autoparts stores around here "and i checked about 4 of them now" carry it for my year of car, they said that the flashers are built to last atleast 10 yrs and that is why they do not carry them b/c my car is only 5 yrs old.

anyway, I spent all my money on the down payment and full coverage insurance on this car, and it does not come with a warrenty.. so I am looking for the best solution I can find to solve this problem

[bdlitzne]

Call a local dealer and give them your VIN number of the car and see if it is among those officially recalled. I was having the same problem and received a letter from GM stating that while my vehicle wasn't actually being recalled, if I was having problems to take it in and have it fixed. I did that a couple of weeks ago, It's nice to have turn signals that work again. It shouldn't have taken this long. GM dragged their feet for a long time.

Good luck,
Bern




Originally posted by kage
Hi, I just financed a 2000 Grand Am Se1 two days ago, and already ran across this forum twice off google searching how to fix a few errors, the first fix was for the stereo theft lock, and now seems my turn signals want to work some of the time and not the others..

when i hit the switch to turn them on "either direction" they do not work at all, they do not show in the display as working and they are not working on the outside either. Im not sure how this recall business works but i was posting to see if the recall information posted here covers the problem im having..

my brother which is a mechanic told me the problem may be my flasher is going out on me that I could buy one at the auto parts store for a few bucks and replace it myself.. but none of the autoparts stores around here "and i checked about 4 of them now" carry it for my year of car, they said that the flashers are built to last atleast 10 yrs and that is why they do not carry them b/c my car is only 5 yrs old.

anyway, I spent all my money on the down payment and full coverage insurance on this car, and it does not come with a warrenty.. so I am looking for the best solution I can find to solve this problem

[AleroGL]

Originally posted by kels1216
Could this be the reason why my steering column smokes the odd time?

let it burn next time :D

[silvermist]

I put off getting this serviced because every dealer I contacted wanted the car for the whole day to fix a problem that takes 30 min.
A new Pontiac dealer opened and I made an appointment, I was out in 45 min.

If you make an appointment far enough in advance they should be able to get you in and out.

[3400-95Modified]

They should extend this recall into 2002, My moms car is a 2002 Grand Am GT and its having the same issue, I was told it's not covered under the recall so I just orderd one from the dealer, I'll put it in myself.

[cavscout]

I recently purchased a 99 Grand Am SE, I had the same problem directionals/hazards were on there last leg. I stopped by the dealership in North Adams,Ma. When I spoke with the service guy hey said there was a special policy(when he printed up the papers it also said special policy on the top)They covered the the part and labor at no cost on my 99. So if you got one thats a year not mentioned above aparently Gm is aware it effected other years also.

[jbrow1]

Originally posted by kels1216
I have a 2002 grand am.. My blinkers and hazard lights still work. My problem is that behind my hazard light comes a ticking noise. It sounds just like the turn signal sound but speed the ticking up X2. Is this recall they are talking about related to the same thing. I have called GM and they tell me know they have never heard of it. Love to find out more.
My wifes 2000 se just started the same thing last week. I took it in for the recall hoping that would fix it, but it did not. Think I may have to take apart the column and switch and see if I can just clean it up. Hopefully. I hate anything to do with electrical on cars. :mad: :P

[Prospeeder]

my moms did the whole uber fast clicking, had a blinker light on its way out or was out i forgot, but we replaced all the blinker bulbs and no more blinker on crack

[2K SE]

Change out the multi function switch on the column. I tried cleaning mine without success, but some have got that to work. AutoZone has them for less than the dealer (70 bucks IIRC)

[jbrow1]

70 bux. grr. Is it hard to get into the column to take the old switch out?

[2K SE]

No. pretty easy. # torx screws on the column cover and 1 torx for the switch. Just be SURE to push in the horn contact before you reassemble the switch. The horn ring will get mangled if you don't.

[carfreak666]

As stated above... very easy to replace the switch... just be careful with the horn ring.. couple of us have learned that the hard way :(

Edit: somebody else mentioned this in a post before as well, but just want to remind you that each of the tail lamps have two turn signal bulbs. It's easy to miss that if and could contribute to the fast clicking...

[jbrow1]

Thanks guys. First thing I'll do is check all the bulbs then. If that's not it I'll try to clean the switch up/replace it.

[Gimli]

I just wanted to let people who've experienced the problem but whose cars are not covered under the recall that you should file a formal report with either the NHTSA or Transport Canada (depending where you live) for them to consider. Even though the recall is limited if they get enough reports that the problem extends to more than what the recall covers they may oblige GM to broaden the recall's coverage.

[trailzrunner]

Just wondered if anybody can tell me where the multifunction switch is located so I can get to it. Dealer wanted $300 to replace it. How hard is it to get to? Thanx

[Ambictus]

Yeah, I replaced the hazzard relay thinking that was problem, then I was fortunate enough to figure out it wasn't. I have a 99...

[d-burn]

Originally posted by olddieselguy
Poeple this is a recall. Call your dealer if your car fits in this vin breakpoint! 2000
Pontiac
Grand Am
YC535849
YC568892

YM792549
YM886948



Hi i just bought a 2000 Grand AM SE1 2 weeks ago, and have been browsing this site ever since. I have no experienced any turn signal problems, however, my VIN is YC556***.
I'm assuming by your post that any number between the two qualifies for the recall. How do i know if this has been done already or not? If my signals still work fine, should I bother?
Thanks.

[Ambictus]

Originally posted by d-burn
Hi i just bought a 2000 Grand AM SE1 2 weeks ago, and have been browsing this site ever since. I have no experienced any turn signal problems, however, my VIN is YC556***.
I'm assuming by your post that any number between the two qualifies for the recall. How do i know if this has been done already or not? If my signals still work fine, should I bother?
Thanks.

If it hasn't been done already get it done. You can check with your local dealer pontiac dealer to see if it's been done. Just because you aren't having the problem now doesn't mean it won't start happening... and it's ANNOYING! My local dealership was kind enough to offer to repair it for me... for $300. I think I'll just buy the part and find the damn thing myself.

[jbrow1]

Speaking of the blinker on crack again.. Mine was doing it fairly regularly ever since I first posted about it. I was to cheap to replace the part or even look into it. I changed my left headlight the other day and it's been gone since even on longer road trips. It used to do it every time I used the blinker. It's mysteriously gone now. : )

[Tonya]

Hi,

I was passing going down the interstate and when I put my switch back in the center the blinkers kept making the clicking noise. I noticed the noise was coming from right above the hazard switch so I pulled over and unplugged it. The dealership gave me a new switch and it still does the same thing. I did however notice my fog light and the small round reverse light is out. Would that have something to do with it??

Anything would be a big help.

Thanks

[jbrow1]

Replace any bulb that is out or looks dim. Mine did the click thing forever, even though all my bulbs worked. Then when my headlight went out and I changed it the clicking mysteriously stopped and hasn't returned. So maybe it happens when lights/blinkers are on the way out as well...

[Ambictus]

Originally posted by Tonya
Hi,

I was passing going down the interstate and when I put my switch back in the center the blinkers kept making the clicking noise. I noticed the noise was coming from right above the hazard switch so I pulled over and unplugged it. The dealership gave me a new switch and it still does the same thing. I did however notice my fog light and the small round reverse light is out. Would that have something to do with it??

Anything would be a big help.

Thanks

I highly doubt it's related to the lights at all. If you have a 2000-2001 GA take it in to a dealership and have them perform the recall work. They should be able to see that there is a recall on it.

[jbrow1]

Originally posted by Ambictus
I highly doubt it's related to the lights at all. If you have a 2000-2001 GA take it in to a dealership and have them perform the recall work. They should be able to see that there is a recall on it.
The warranty work didn't solve mine. I just got lucky and it went away when the headlight was changed.

[AznGA]

Is there anyone out there who do not have 00 or 01 GA's but got this fixed for free because you are experiencing same symptoms?

[d-burn]

Hey all. Just had this recall performed. Where exactly is the hazard flasher switch located? I assumed it was behind the hazard button. How do you go about taking off the cover to get to this? I think they might not have put the damn thing on correctly, or it might have been not clipped in at the bottom to begin with. Only notice stuff after you inspect it when it's done. lol
Part was Switch N 025750 for those interested.

[AznGA]

Originally posted by d-burn
Hey all. Just had this recall performed. Where exactly is the hazard flasher switch located? I assumed it was behind the hazard button. How do you go about taking off the cover to get to this? I think they might not have put the damn thing on correctly, or it might have been not clipped in at the bottom to begin with. Only notice stuff after you inspect it when it's done. lol
Part was Switch N 025750 for those interested.
I believe the switch is behind the hazerd button. You would need to take the radio bazel off. In order to do that, you need to take out the plastic ring around the keyhole. After that, the bazel should come out if you pull carefully. But I would go back and have them redo it because it's their messup.

[AznGA]

I called Pontiac and my local dealer but they really didn't help me. All they wanted to know is my VIN number and of course since mine is an 02, they won't cover it, even if I am experiencing the same problem.

But I found out this is only a $15 part. So I am gonna replace it myself.

[Ambictus]

The $15 part is not the problem. Believe me... I've replaced it. I believe the problem child is actually in the steering column...

[AznGA]

What are you experiencing? Random clicking noise or signals not working at all?

The recall states that the dealer is supposed to replace the hazard warning switch.........

[Ambictus]

Random clicking. The $15 part is the hazard relay. It doesn't fix the problem. I replaced it and after about 10 minutes on the road it started freaking out again.

[AznGA]

This recall has NOTHING to do with the random clicking. This recall is about signals not working at all.

The random clicking is when the dirt gets trapped inside the signal switch lever. When I had warranty, I had the lever replaced under warranty, but it's happening again. If you do some search, there should be a topic that tells you how to take it apart to clean it.

[Ambictus]

Yeah, I know how to take it apart and clean it. I'm pretty sure they are directly related. The random clicking is what actually causes the relay to stop working.

[d-burn]

Originally posted by AznGA
I believe the switch is behind the hazerd button. You would need to take the radio bazel off. In order to do that, you need to take out the plastic ring around the keyhole. After that, the bazel should come out if you pull carefully. But I would go back and have them redo it because it's their messup.

How does one go about taking out the plastic ring around the keyhole, i can move it around a little bit now, which i didn't used to be able to do.

[AznGA]

Take a screwdriver and carefully pry it.

[AznGA]

Well I replaced the hazard switch myself because both Pontiac and the dealer was unhelpful by just asking me for the VIN. The part was around $25. It has been working fine since.

[1994GA]

My hazards stop all signal lights from working when hazard are turned on. Mine is a 1994 SE.

Will they ever recall me, or is my car too old?

[Gimli]

Originally posted by 1994GA
My hazards stop all signal lights from working when hazard are turned on. Mine is a 1994 SE.

Will they ever recall me, or is my car too old?

That's normal behaviour, hazards override turn signals.

[GameMisconduct]

Thanks to ALL for the good info in this thread. I have a '99 with the same exact symptoms (non-functional signals at intermittent times). I was originally told it was the multi-function switch in the column so I had it replaced. Seemed to fix it for a week or so. Then it started again. I've been too lazy to fix it and really didn't know what the issue was, until now. A few presses of the hazard switch and/or smacks on the dash above it and the signals work again, briefly. Today on a 30 mile drive one way they went out 3 different times. Each time I did the temp fix by pressing the hazard button and smacking the dash.

I just sent an email to the service dept. manager showing him the recall and other info. In reading this thread it seems I should do one of these things:

1. Clean with contact cleaner (not WD or 3in1) or alcohol
2. Replace the hazard switch

I think these Grand AMs are electrical nightmares. Now I am going to go search for the reason my stock radio displays funky characters on the LED display and locks the display intermittently. Also the check tire press light is on, but all 4 tires are A-OK.

Thanks again to everyone for the info in this thread.

Greg

[GameMisconduct]

Ok so I broke down and bought a new hazard switch. Only after I called GM and placed a claim/complaint since my VIN wasn't covered under this recall. I went to the local dealer and the list for the part was $44 and change. So I asked the parts person, "That's list, what is my cost?" She looked at me kind of odd and then said, "Let me see what I can do." She took off to the back room then came back and said, "How about $27 plus tax?" Sweet! So $17 off the part was a good deal for me.

[con26]

help? Took car to dealer re: "Special policy" for turn signals, was told that was NOT the problem, it's the multi-function switch. Well, that is not the problem-should I just get after them to honor the special policy or what? This is a 99 grand Am with the vin falling in the correct range of numbers. They only work intermittently, and we've only had the car for a couple of months-looks great, but gee, blinkers are good, too! Any suggestions?

[GameMisconduct]

Originally posted by con26
help? Took car to dealer re: "Special policy" for turn signals, was told that was NOT the problem, it's the multi-function switch. Well, that is not the problem-should I just get after them to honor the special policy or what? This is a 99 grand Am with the vin falling in the correct range of numbers. They only work intermittently, and we've only had the car for a couple of months-looks great, but gee, blinkers are good, too! Any suggestions?

So you had the hazard warning switch replaced? Or did the dealer tell you that it wasn't the problem. If I'm thinking properly it should be one of two switches - Multi-Function Switch or Hazard switch. I originally changed the Multi-function switch and that didn't fix it. So I replaced the Hazard switch and that seems to have resolved the issues. Mine is a 99 also, but didn't fall in the VIN range.

The part is $27-$44 depending on the deal you can get. It's very easy and simple to install. There are instructions somewhere on this forum on how to remove the old and install the new hazard switch. Is $44 worth not having an accident? I would change it if it were me.

One question, when your signals stop working can you press the hazard button a few times or hit the dash to bring them back on? If so I would bet this is the hazard switch though I'm not a mechanic. I did stay at a Holiday Inn Express last night though.

[con26]

The dealer said it was the multi-function switch, which they offered to fix for a mere ~$300. We replaced it, still only worked part-time. Nothing at all seems to happen when you push the hazard button, don't know about banging on the dash, nor staying at a Holiday Inn Express, but I think perhaps the dealer doesn't want to do a freebie. My husband seems to think it is the "flasher can", but that is part of the hazard-warning switch, I guess, and isn't available except through the dealer and I thought that was the part that they were supposed to change, so maybe it is a different particular part of the hazard switch than what the original problem was in, if that makes any sense.

[GameMisconduct]

Originally posted by con26
The dealer said it was the multi-function switch, which they offered to fix for a mere ~$300. We replaced it, still only worked part-time. Nothing at all seems to happen when you push the hazard button, don't know about banging on the dash, nor staying at a Holiday Inn Express, but I think perhaps the dealer doesn't want to do a freebie. My husband seems to think it is the "flasher can", but that is part of the hazard-warning switch, I guess, and isn't available except through the dealer and I thought that was the part that they were supposed to change, so maybe it is a different particular part of the hazard switch than what the original problem was in, if that makes any sense.

If your car is covered under the recall then print it out. It's located in the first post of this thread. Do as that post says and make the necessary calls. Explain to the dealer that this is a recall and they are obligated to fix. If you don't get action from the dealer call GM/Pontiac again and complain. If your VIN is in the range then you are entitled to the recall. You could always buy the switch and replace it yourself if you get shuffled aside by the dealer and GM, but I doubt you will.

The holiday in express was a joke - from a commercial. Guess you haven't seen it. Do me a favor and when your turn signals fail to work, press the hazard light button in and out a few times until they come on. That's a sure sign it's the hazard switch.

[Fire'N'Ice]

After this ordeal (http://www.gaownersclub.com/forum/showthread.php?s=&threadid=65094) it was concluded that the issue was NOT the multifunction switch but rather the hazard thingy mabopper!!
Stealership dude said he'd TRY and put it through the recall for me....so I left w/o paying any more pennies and am VERY happy!! (said he'd let me know if there were any troubles, told him I still ain't paying as I KNOW it's a known issues with pre-2000 GAs and they're being covered so mine better be too :D)

[con26]

well, pushing on the hazard button doesn't do anything, nor does smacking the dash-guess we can try[again] to get it replaced via the "special policy' deal. I think they should have just done it anyway, but they suspected something else. We also get the squirrely readouts on the LED for the clock/cd player.

[con26]

Well, the woman from pontiac said the part we installed [multi-function switch] may have not been properly installed, so they can't go ahead and replace the hazard-warning switch without doing further diagnosing, no doubt to see if it's something else that they can make money off of, instead of a "freebie". This is so unacceptable to me; it's a shame they can't just stand behind their product and fix their own mistakes. It's no wonder American automakers are in such trouble.

[BledRedGaSe]

Yup I went to the dealer about mine and they gave me the run around. My vin is in the recall and they still wouldn't do it. they told me that they would replace it but if it was something else they would have to charge me a hundred bucks just for looking at it and telling me what is wrong. So I left.

[Gimli]

Originally posted by BledRedGaSe
Yup I went to the dealer about mine and they gave me the run around. My vin is in the recall and they still wouldn't do it. they told me that they would replace it but if it was something else they would have to charge me a hundred bucks just for looking at it and telling me what is wrong. So I left.

Make sure you send GM corporate a letter detailing your visit to the dealer. A dealer is mandated by law to execute a recall whenever a car on which it hasn't been done before shows up.

The NHTSA may like a copy of the letter as well.

[GameMisconduct]

Originally posted by con26
Well, the woman from pontiac said the part we installed [multi-function switch] may have not been properly installed, so they can't go ahead and replace the hazard-warning switch without doing further diagnosing, no doubt to see if it's something else that they can make money off of, instead of a "freebie". This is so unacceptable to me; it's a shame they can't just stand behind their product and fix their own mistakes. It's no wonder American automakers are in such trouble.

Change it yourself, keep the receipt and do as Gimli says. I think the hazard switch retails for $44 USD. I got a deal on mine, but my car wasn't on the recall list.

It's been nearly 54 days after I replaced the switch and I have not had even a single hiccup with the turn signals. Mine was definitely the hazard switch. Unfortunately I paid to have the multi-function switch replaced first (which didn't fix it).

In hindsight I would have been smarter to replace the hazard switch first as it's cheaper. If that didn't work then move on to the the multi-function switch. Yeah I was stupid on this one.


EDIT: I can't add - $44 not $47 and it's been 54 days not 48, doh!

[AngelofSiN]

Ugh, I've been having this problem with my 01 GA for a while now. I called up my local dealer, gave 'em my VIN and they said I had no open recalls. :( Guess I'll have to shell out the cash now.

[bballr4567]

I dont see why they wont fix it. There is an open recall for all 2000-2001 GA's that have this problem. Yours has this problem. Simple to me. Complain a little. Raise all kidns of hell.

[AngelofSiN]

Originally posted by bballr4567
I dont see why they wont fix it. There is an open recall for all 2000-2001 GA's that have this problem. Yours has this problem. Simple to me. Complain a little. Raise all kidns of hell.

I don't know... the only thing I can think of is that the previous owner already took care of the recall but the switch went bad again.

I wonder if there's any way I can find out if the recall was already performed on my car.

[bigkev]

I have a 1999 with the same problem and i called and they said its not a recall its a bulletin
like hey this may be a problem but u gotta bring it in and have it checked out
and if its a problem we will refund the money to you

i think id rather just keep hitting my hazards everytime they dont work

[brettf79]

:D I have a 2004 GA Gt and my signal shifter is causing my flasher to tick when i drive. driving me insane time to get it fixed is there a recall for such a problem? and i the drivers seat electric seat adjustment the one that makes it go up and down called it quits. and one else have these two problems?

[Burger]

I have a 2000 GT and the turn signal clicks when it is not turned on. Sometimes it clicks, other times it doesn't. It is not a constant click tho. When i DO turn the signal on it works. I have to turn the radio on to bleed out the clicking noise when i am not turning

[Burger]

Hey brettf79, hey man i have the same problems. The signal and the seat. I actually took the seat out of the car, with the mind set of replacing the motor but it was really put in there in an "not so easy way of getting it out"

[Wardog72]

Originally posted by Burger
Hey brettf79, hey man i have the same problems. The signal and the seat. I actually took the seat out of the car, with the mind set of replacing the motor but it was really put in there in an "not so easy way of getting it out"

Same prob on my 2000 SE. Here's the kicker though: out of frustration I hit the driver's side of the center console (just under the A/C controls near the storage compartment) and my car died while I was on the freeway. Manage to pull to the side and re-start. Decided to try hitting it again and the car died again. Haven't repeated that since...

[JeremiahCoffel]

I have a '95 GA, and I was having problems with my turn signals when I was fixing the hoses, and some miscellaneous problems under the hood. I was so pissed when they wouldn't work, I posted on here to see if anyone knew anything about it, didn't get an answer that actually fixed it, but a lot helped, and helped with a few other problems. Anyway, I turned on the flashers after my girlfriend's dad told me I should check the breaker, and so I did it was working fine, I checked it by turning on the flashers, so I was then thinking, if my flashers work, why won't my turn signals, so I just tried the signals again, and it worked. Could this be happening with GA's a few years older than the one's stated with the recall? Could GM know about it? Seeing I just now read this thread, once I get home from running around tomorrow, I will check all the soldering joints on my column, and see what's going on in there.

[1badga]

the dealer didnt wanna do anything for me back in 04 for this problem so i got one from a junk yard for 10$,nice knowing them so good,i could of gotten it for nothing but hey 10 bux is nothing

[99GrandAMSE]

My Aunt's 2000 Malibu is being covered under warranty in the upcoming week or so ... in this regard, anyone who has a need for this to be replaced or has already replaced it, these documents MAY help you :)

Product Safety - Turn Signals-Hazard Warning Flashers Inoperative #03043A - (Mar 8, 2004) (http://www.gaownersclub.com/kbruce/misc/Flashers_03043A_Mar_8_2004.pdf)

Special Policy Adjustment - Turn Signals-Hazard Warning Flashers #04098 - (Dec 16, 2004) (http://www.gaownersclub.com/kbruce/misc/Flashers_04098_Dec_16_2004.pdf)

[d-burn]

Those are definitely helpful documents for anyone with this problem. I had my hazard switch replaced under the recall about a year and a half ago. Since then I had had no problems with my signals. However today I had my music on pretty loud, but i heard a clicking in the background. I turned the music down, and it was infact the clicking sound of the signal behind the hazard switch (clicking very rapidly). However there was no signals showing up on the display. When i engage my turn signal when it does this, it operates fine. When i turn it off again, it clicks like crazy. Sometimes stops for 30 seconds, then starts again. What could this be?

[Gimli]

That is usually the signal of a dirty or failing multi-purpose arm in the steering column. It creates a short-circuit in the blinker contact which doesn't last long enough to actually engage the blinkers but it's enough to trigger the flasher relay.

There are quite a few posts that explain how to verify/fix it if you care to use the search function.

[golfgod88]

Yeah, I replaced the hazzard relay thinking that was problem, then I was fortunate enough to figure out it wasn't. I have a 99...
I have a VW that had the same problem. I switched the hazard switch out; didn't work. But, I came a cross a post in another forum about the way the turn signal stalk works and that it can get gunked up. Sure enough, I sprayed a little electric parts cleaner along the stalk (have a rag under your steering column for drips) and it hasn't spontaneously clicked since - and that was about 7 months ago.

I just got a 2003 Grand AM with the same problem; but I've yet to clean it up and see if the same solution works in this car also.

[Taz-man]

mine is a 99 model i wonder if the recall covers that yr ..but i found a few #s Im going to try in am to find more info he's the #s...

CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438, PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668, OR OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-630-6537.

[zapp]

for what its worth, I recently had a string of conversations with GM/Pontiac about issues with my 2000 SE [2.4].
they basically shot me the finger except for the hazard switch issue, which they said they would cover in total. so advised me to take it wherever GM Dealer and tell them to call the head office if they have any questions.

[brmorris]

Thanks to this thread, I found out what the problem was with my turn signals not working. I couldn't find any instructions, so I took pictures throughout the process and posted them here:

http://brianmorristech.com/?p=84

[pontiacgac1995]

My 1995 model had a problem with the hazard switch and the turn signals. I was able to fix it by replacing the entire turn signal lever. It cost $110 but without it my car would not pass inspection. :)

[holt_champ]

hey, this is the first time i am hearing about the recall for the hazard lights. i have an 2000 SE. my hazards went out on me about a year and a half ago but i decided to do nothing with it and just be careful. so far so good but a permanant fix would be very nice. would i just take it to any GM dealer. would they have to honor the recall for all vehicles even tho its been a long time since recall was issued? also would it be absoluty free for me. all answers are appriciated. thanks

Phillip

[vega850]

its a first for me too but i had a problem a while back but all i had to do was replace the hazard switch it was like 12-15 bucks