Troubleshooting Rear Turn Signals on 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx

Updated 12/14/2016 | Published 12/13/2016

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Universal Magnetic Tow Lights - 20' Wiring Harness with 4-Way Flat Trailer Connector

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Dielectric Grease for Electrical Connectors, 2 oz.

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Question:

My 2004 chevy malibu maxx rear turn signals dont work, and I dont want to spend the $800.00+ to replace them. Could I use any of your products to replace them until I can afford to replace the car? I would just like to put a couple push button toggle switches on my dash to use for signaling my turn. 2 amber bliknking lights,one for each side of course! And a simple plan to install it in my car. Beginers level please! Can ypu help me? Even if i need to use some AAA batteries! Thanks for anything you can do!

asked by: Ann

Expert Reply:

I suggest you first check the rear turn signal bulbs in your light housings and then also the turn signal fuses in the power distribution box in your 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx. Dealer wiring repairs can indeed be costly but checking/replacing bulbs and fuses is easy and inexpensive.

If your bulbs and fuses are good then you'll want to inspect the wiring and connectors in the lights for any signs of loose wires or fasteners. Check the bulb sockets for signs of discoloration - even very slight greenish or whitish discoloration can indicate corrosion that is bad enough to block signal transmission. Clean as needed and apply dielectric grease # 11755 to keep the connections clean.

I see you were looking at a set of magnetic tow lights, part # TL21RK. These require a 4-pole wiring harness like # C56013 that itself would plug in at the taillights, so you'd still need to get those taillights working!

In the short term you can still (legally) make turns using the standard hand signals. You also may be able to splice the rear signals into the wiring for the front signals that still work.

expert reply by: Adam R