Expert: Skip Bollinger - 10/10/2006

Question
I have a chevy impala 2000 and have 2 questions. First the turn signals are not functioning at all times if I pull the fuse and reinsert they work properly for a short time. Hazard lights button use to help them work but not on a consistant basis. Second I have a Viper alarm with remote start. The car has a few times started on its own without anyone touching anything. I asume its the remote start malfunctioning. Can I diconnect the remote start only or replace the whole thing.

Answer
Coleen,
  I'm a Parts Professional, NOT a Mechanic but I can't just ignore your questions. I do have some thoughts and I'm offering them for your evaluation.
  MOST alarm systems operate the turn signal/emergency light systems when activated. I feel the problem is in the alarm since sometimes the vehicle will start on it's own. I would remove the alarm system altogether and see what happens. HEY... Does the alarm system have a fuse?? I'm sure it does. Just pull that fuse to disable the alarm and see what happens. IF that fixes things, just dump the alarm system and get better insurance. IF it doesn't, you probably have problems in the steering column. This is where the turn signals and emergency lights connect wiring wise.
  I'm sure this doesn't give you much to go on but it is the best a Parts Guy can do. I'm sorry to take so long to respond but I had to make a quick but short stay in the Hospital and didn't have time to take my name off the list. Good luck...
  Skip
  HARD TO FIND AUTO PARTS
  CarPartMan@aol.com