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Ford Mustang GT 1996-2004: How to Slow Down Sequential Tail Light Rate

Sequential turn signals are some of the most aesthetically pleasing parts of your car. Why not help improve it by slowing the flash speed down a bit? Here is how you do so.

By Neftali Medina - October 15, 2015
Contributors: WebElectric, American Muscle

This article applies to the Ford Mustang GT (1996-2004).

You've just installed a sequential light kit on your Ford Mustang, but it seems like the lights flicker a bit too quick for your own personal taste. The good news is your kit isn't to blame, but the stock flasher relay is. The stock flasher relay makes use of a smaller 3.3uF capacitor, which controls how fast or slow the side markers blink. Fortunately, all this means is you need to add a larger capacitor to slow down the rhythm. Use this following instructions to correctly install a larger capacitor on the stock relay and slow down the sequential tail lights on your Ford Mustang GT.

Materials Needed

  • Soldering iron
  • Solder
  • Flat head screwdriver
  • 1uF capacitor

This article assumes you already have the sequential light kit installed on your Ford Mustang.

Step 1 – Locate and remove the signal flasher

The signal flasher is located under the driver's side dashboard, near the gas pedal. You can find it by turning the car on and switching on the turn signal. It will then stand out by making a nice buzzing sound. After you find the flasher, disconnect it from the harness.

Figure 1. Disconnect the signal flasher.

Step 2 – Take apart the signal flasher cover

Now, you have to get into the innards of the flasher relay. Take a small flat head screwdriver and gently pry up the clips holding the cover on. Remove the cover assembly.

Figure 2. Bare bones flasher relay.

Step 3 – Solder on a larger capacitor

This next step requires some precision. Grab the newly purchased 1uF capacitor and place it on top of the standard 3.3uF capacitor. Cut the leads to size, and then solder them onto the stock flasher relay.

Figure 3. Solder the 1uF capacitor to the flasher relay.

Step 4 – Reinstall the flasher relay

  • Take the plastic cover and reinstall the flasher relay.
  • Mount the unit back under the dashboard.
  • Connect the flasher relay.
  • Turn the car on and check the turn signals; it should be flashing approximately 60 times a minute.
Figure 4. Sequential tail lights installed.

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