Car Blinker Sounds Explained: Classic vs Modern

Have you ever wondered where the clicking sound from your car's blinker is coming from? This article will explore the evolution of car blinker sounds from the classic mechanical click to the modern electronic beep, highlighting the differences and solutions for those who find the noise too loud.

Classic vs Modern Blinker Sounds: An Overview

Traditionally, the blinker sound in older cars came from a simple yet mechanical device. When you turn your turn signals on, a tiny man (or cricket clicker) beneath the dash would click away, producing the recognizable “tink tink” sound. However, as technology advanced, the mechanism behind this sound has changed substantially.

The Evolution of Blinker Sounds

1. Mechanical Blinker Sound
In current vehicles, the sound is no longer created by mechanical components. Instead, an electronic signal triggers a small speaker located in the dashboard or the car’s audio system. This speaker is programmed to replicate the sound of the original mechanical blinker. Some modern cars even incorporate more sophisticated sounds, like a synthesized version of Elvis Presley’s “Love Me Tender”!

2. The Mechanical Mechanism
For those with classic or retro vehicles, the sound comes from a small flasher unit. This component, often made of metal or plastic, is housed under the dash, usually near the steering wheel area. When the turn signal is activated, an automatic switching relay unit carries out the action, making the classic “tink tink” sound as the circuit opens and closes.

3. Modern Relay Units
In modern cars, the blinker relay is a solid-state unit with no moving parts, meaning the sound can be replicated electronically. Although it may not be as distinct or authentic as the mechanical “click,” the result is still a reliable and consistent turn signal sound.

Examples and Characteristics

For example, in my Ford Expedition, the blinker sound was too loud for my liking. To address this issue, I found the small speaker responsible for the noise and applied some Gorilla tape to muffle the sound. This DIY solution can be quite effective for those looking to suppress the noise without overly modifying their car.

How the Sound is Generated

The sound itself is created by the electro-mechanical components within the relay. A relay is a switching device that controls high current electrical circuits using low current signals. In the case of turn signals, the relay opens and closes, making the “click” sound as the circuit operates. The older mechanical units were made of thin aluminum or tin, producing a classic “tink tink” noise, while modern solid-state units create a synthetic version of this sound.

Additional Information

Curious about the precise mechanical workings? The blinker relay is a small, round device with two prongs that connect to the directional signals. Inside, you’ll find two bimetallic strips of different materials. When heated, these strips can separate, causing the “thunking” sound, which was often captured in an audio clip (though the specific link is omitted here to maintain content quality).

Understanding the difference between classic and modern car blinker sounds can be both fascinating and useful, especially for car enthusiasts and owners who are adjusting to the changes in automotive technology. Whether you prefer the familiar mechanical clicks or the modern electronic beeps, knowing about the underlying mechanisms can enhance your appreciation of your vehicle's functionality.