I recently picked up a 2000 Protege. I have been hearing the "clicking" that the turn signal makes without the turn signal on but today I smelled something burning and some smoke came out from behind the steering wheel. If I would have to change the turn signal switch will i have to take the steering wheel off or is there an easier way to fix it?

 

Ok then how can I test the signal relay under the dash?

 

Ok. If someone else has this issue then take off the steering column cover, take out the two philips head screws that hold on the turn signal arm. Take off the turn signal arm then take apart the switch attached to the arm and clean the copper coated terminals then put it all back together.

 

I can see why high resistance (grease/dust/dirt) could cause the burning smell or smoke you were experiencing, but did you figure out what was causing the clicking noise you heard?
I had read your (this) thread before, but had no suggestions for you. I was hoping someone else here had a better idea of where to steer you than I did. Apparently, you figured something out on your own.

 

The signal switch was engaging slightly, because it was dirty and causing the relay under the dash to click.

 

Oh! So you had a partial short. I understand now. I guess the current draw wasn"t strong enough (too much resistance) to active the bulbs though.
Thanks for the explaination, nt! An interesting problem.I"ll have to "file" this one for future reference.