Question about side turn signals / "seitenblinker"

Jul 29, 2004 | 10:09 PM

JM1FE

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Question about side turn signals / "seitenblinker"

Hello -

A question for European owners about turn signal behaviour...

In the US, we are not required to have the 'repeater' turn signals on the front fenders. Instead, we are required to have front side-marker lights that illuminate amber when the lights are on. Some manufacturers (VW, BMW) do provide the side turn signals, but since it's not a requirement, most (including Mazda on the RX-8) do not do so.

From looking at pictures posted here of European-spec RX-8s, there is no difference in the placement of the lights on the side, so I have to assume that what we have as the side-marker is in Europe designed to function as a turn signal. I'm curious as to how this is done:

1. The fixture has one bulb, and functions as a side marker only (US style)
2. The fixture has one bulb, and functions as a turn signal only
3. The fixture has one bulb, which is on steady as a side marker AND blinks as as turn signal
4. The fixture has two bulbs - one for a side marker and one for turn signal

Could some of you in various countries indicate which of the 4 descriptions above most accurately describes how your lights work?

ALSO - is the lens of that lamp flush with the fender where it meets the wheel well, or does it protrude out so that it's visible to other cars behind/beside (like the lights on the Porsche Boxter)?

Thanks

Jul 31, 2004 | 09:24 AM

jimbobjoe

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From: Guildford

In the UK the answer is (2)

The requirement in the UK for the annual car roadworthyness test is that when standing at the back of the car, 1 metre from the side, you can see a turn signal.