Universal Turn Signal Switch

Elevate Your Safety and Style with the EMPI Universal Turn Signal Switch

When it comes to building a custom sand rail, manx-style buggy, or restoring a vintage air-cooled Volkswagen that requires a clean, column-mounted solution, the EMPI Universal Turn Signal Switch stands out as the industry standard. This heavy-duty unit is designed to provide reliable directional signaling and emergency hazard functionality in a single, compact, and aesthetically pleasing package. The high-luster chrome-plated housing and control arm offer a timeless look that complements any interior, from a stripped-down race cockpit to a fully upholstered street cruiser. Because it is engineered for versatility, this switch is a favorite among builders who are tired of dealing with brittle plastic OEM components or complex wiring harnesses that don''t fit their custom steering columns. It is built to withstand the vibrations and harsh environments of off-road use while maintaining the tactile precision you expect from a premium electrical component.

Beyond its classic appearance, the EMPI 16-2101-0 is a powerhouse of functionality, compatible with both 6-volt and 12-volt electrical systems. This makes it an ideal choice for early Beetles still running their original generators as well as modernized 12-volt conversions. One of the standout features of this universal unit is the integrated emergency flasher switch, which eliminates the need for an additional dashboard-mounted hazard button, saving you valuable real estate on your dash and simplifying your wiring schematic. The switch mounts easily to any round steering column using the included heavy-duty adjustable clamp, ensuring a secure fit that won''t slip during spirited driving. Whether you are navigating city traffic in a Baja Bug or traversing dunes in a custom rail, having a dependable, easy-to-reach signal switch is a critical safety upgrade that brings your vintage ride into alignment with modern road requirements without sacrificing that iconic VW soul.

Vehicle Fitment and Compatibility

This universal switch is designed for applications where a stock column switch is either unavailable or undesired. While it is a "Universal" fit, it is most commonly utilized on the following air-cooled models and custom projects:

• Volkswagen Beetle: 1946 through 1979 (Standard and Super Beetle)
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1956 through 1974
• Volkswagen Bus / Type 2: 1950 through 1979
• Volkswagen Type 3: 1961 through 1973 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback)
• Volkswagen Thing / Type 181: 1973 through 1974
• Custom Applications: Meyers Manx, Sand Rails, Dune Buggies, Baja Bugs, and Hot Rods.
• Steering Columns: Fits most aftermarket and OEM round steering columns (approx. 1.5 inches to 2 inches in diameter).

Technical Specifications

• Part Number: 16-2101-0
• Manufacturer: EMPI
• Housing Material: Die-cast steel with premium chrome plating.
• Handle Material: Polished chrome-plated steel.
• Voltage Compatibility: Works with both 6V and 12V DC systems.
• Switch Functions: Left turn, Right turn, and Integrated Emergency Hazard Flashers.
• Mounting Hardware: Included adjustable stainless steel worm-gear clamp.
• Wiring: Multi-wire pigtail harness (7-wire configuration for standard turn/brake integration).
• Finish: High-mirror chrome.

Pro Tips from the Appletree Tech Bench

Pro Tip 1: Ensure a Solid Ground Connection. Many electrical gremlins in VWs are caused by poor grounding. This universal switch often relies on the metal-to-metal contact between the mounting clamp and the steering column to complete the circuit for certain internal functions. If your steering column is freshly painted or powder-coated, use a small file or sandpaper to clear a tiny patch of bare metal where the clamp sits. This ensures your flashers won''t "hyper-flash" or fail to activate when you need them most.

Pro Tip 2: Use the Correct Flasher Relay. Since this switch is universal, it does not include the flasher relay itself. Ensure you are using a 3-prong heavy-duty flasher relay that matches your vehicle''s voltage (6V or 12V). If you are running LED turn signal bulbs, you must use an LED-specific electronic flasher relay. Using a standard thermal relay with LEDs will result in the lights staying solid or not blinking at all because the LEDs don''t draw enough current to heat the internal bi-metal strip of the relay.

Pro Tip 3: Master the 7-Wire Logic. Wiring a 7-wire switch can be intimidating, but it is designed this way to allow your rear turn signals to share the same bulb filament as your brake lights (standard on most vintage VWs). When the turn signal is activated, the switch "interrupts" the brake light signal on that side so it can flash while the other side remains a solid red brake light. Always use a test light to verify your vehicle''s existing wire functions before crimping your final connections to ensure your brake lights and turn signals don''t cross-feed.