* Brake Light Switch: This is a very common culprit. It's a switch activated by the brake pedal that sends power to the brake lights. If it fails, neither brake lights nor the brake light portion of the emergency flashers will work. It's relatively inexpensive and easy to replace.
* Hazard Switch: The hazard switch activates the flashers. If it's faulty, it won't send power to the flasher unit, regardless of the brake light switch status.
* Flasher Unit (Turn Signal Flasher): This unit controls the flashing of the turn signals and hazard lights. A bad flasher can prevent both from working. It's a small, relatively inexpensive component usually located under the dash.
* Wiring Harness Issues: Corrosion, broken wires, or bad connections in the wiring harness are possible. This is harder to diagnose and requires tracing the wires from the switch to the lights. Look particularly at the connections near the brake pedal, hazard switch, and at the tail light assemblies. A common problem area is where wires pass through the firewall or body.
* Grounding Issues: A poor ground connection can affect the entire system. Check the ground connections at the tail lights and at the battery.
* Combination Switch (Steering Column Switch): This part controls turn signals, wipers, and sometimes the high beams. A failure within the switch can affect the turn signal portion of the hazard light circuit.
Troubleshooting Steps:
1. Visually inspect the bulbs: Ensure all your brake light and turn signal bulbs are good. A burned-out bulb could mistakenly lead you to believe there's a larger electrical issue.
2. Test the brake light switch: With the key on, use a test light or voltmeter to check for power at the brake light switch connectors when the brake pedal is pressed.
3. Test the hazard switch: See if power is going to the flasher unit when the hazard switch is activated.
4. Check the flasher unit: Sometimes a gentle tap on the flasher unit can temporarily restore function if it's a loose connection. But if it's faulty it'll need to be replaced.
5. Check the wiring: This is the most difficult step, and you may need a wiring diagram for your 1981 Corvette. Carefully inspect the wiring harness for any damaged, corroded, or disconnected wires. A multimeter can be used to check for continuity in the wires.
6. Check grounds: Clean any ground connections you find.
If you're not comfortable working with car wiring, it's best to take your Corvette to a qualified mechanic for diagnosis and repair. Attempting electrical repairs without the proper knowledge can lead to further damage or even injury. A wiring diagram specific to your year and model Corvette will be invaluable in tracing the circuits.
