How To Install Load Resistors for Nissan 350Z Front Turn Signals (Fix Hyper Flash)

Upgrading your Nissan 350Z front turn signals to LED bulbs is a great move. However, once you install LEDs, you will likely notice hyper flash. The signals blink rapidly because LEDs draw far less power than factory incandescent bulbs.

The 350Z’s computer expects to see the higher load of a halogen bulb. When it does not detect that load, it assumes a bulb is out. As a result, it triggers the fast blink warning.

Unlike many vehicles, you cannot fix this by swapping the flasher relay. On the 350Z, the flasher circuit is built into the BCM (Body Control Module). You cannot replace or reprogram it. Therefore, the most reliable solution is to install load resistors.

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Why You Need Load Resistors

LED bulbs consume very little power. Incandescent bulbs create light by heating a filament, which draws more current. The BCM monitors that current.

When you install an LED, the BCM detects low resistance and assumes failure. To correct this, you install a load equalizing resistor in parallel with the bulb wiring. The resistor mimics the electrical load of the original bulb.

In simple terms, the resistor creates heat the same way a filament would. This added load convinces the BCM that everything works properly.

There is no LED bulb that permanently solves this issue in the 350Z without resistors. If you want proper function, you must install them.

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Recommended Resistor Kit

The 50W resistor kit from GTR Lighting includes:

• Two 50W load resistors

• Wiring leads

• Mounting hardware

• Installation instructions

These resistors can reach temperatures up to 240°F. Always mount them to metal and away from plastic, wiring insulation, or anything flammable.

Long wire leads make placement easier. You can route the resistor to a safe mounting location without straining the wiring.

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How the Resistor Is Wired

Each resistor has two black wires. It does not matter which side connects first. The resistor is non-polarized.

You will connect:

• One side to positive

• One side to ground

The resistor installs in parallel with the turn signal bulb wiring. It does not replace the bulb. Instead, it taps into the power and ground wires.

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2003–2005 Nissan 350Z Resistor Installation

Step 1: Remove the Headlight

Start by removing the headlight assembly. This gives you full access to the turn signal wiring.

If needed, refer to a 350Z headlight removal guide before continuing.

Step 2: Identify the Turn Signal Wires

Locate the two wires that power the turn signal bulb.

Disconnect the battery. Then strip a small section of insulation from both wires to expose clean copper.

Next, strip the ends of both resistor wires.

Step 3: Connect the Resistor

Twist one resistor wire around one of the bulb wires.
Twist the second resistor wire around the other bulb wire.

After securing the connections, solder them properly. Then wrap each connection with high-quality electrical tape or heat shrink.

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2006+ Nissan 350Z Resistor Installation

The 2006 and newer 350Z uses a three-wire turn signal setup:

• One ground wire

• One dim parking light wire

• One bright blinking wire

Use a multimeter to identify each wire. Do not rely on color alone.

Typically:

• Black = ground

• Blue = dim

• Green = bright

However, wire colors may vary. Always test your vehicle.

You must connect the resistor between:

• The ground wire

• The bright blinking wire

Install it the same way as earlier models. Twist, solder, and insulate each connection carefully.

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Mounting the Resistor Safely

After wiring the resistor, choose a safe mounting location.

Because resistors get very hot, follow these rules:

• Mount to bare metal only

• Keep away from plastic and wire insulation

• Use the included self-tapping screw

• Ensure it does not interfere with headlight reinstallation

A metal cross member near the headlight area often works well.

Once mounted, reconnect everything and test the signals before final reassembly.

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Final Check

After installation:

• Reconnect the battery

• Test turn signals

• Confirm normal blink speed

• Verify parking light and hazard operation

If everything works properly, reinstall the headlight and secure all panels.

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