What’s with Ford’s 45-degree turn-signal stalk?

We’ve liked several of the recent Ford products we’ve tested, especially the new Flex crossover SUV. But several current Fords, including the Fusion and Flex, have this strange appendage.

Unlike most turn-signal stalks that stick out from the left side of the steering wheel at the 9-o’clock position – right where your hand is supposed to be – this one angles up from the top corner of the steering column. It’s not really difficult to use, especially if you’re turning right. In that case, you can reach up and push it with your forefinger instead of using one of your lesser digits. But if you’re turning left, there’s no way to reach it without taking your hand off the wheel.

To be fair, this design isn’t on every new Ford: the freshened Escapes and the F-150 we now have in our garage have a “normal” stalk. In any case, next time you’re on the road, take a look to see how many Flex and Fusion drivers are only signaling right turns – and darting left unannounced.

Maybe it’s a safety measure. After all, left turns are more dangerous. Maybe we should follow UPS’ example and just not to make them at all.

—Eric Evarts, photo by Mike Leung.