General
blinker fluid
What does blinker fluid mean?
A fictitious vehicle fluid used to send inexperienced troops on a pointless scavenger hunt.
"The mechanic told the new guy to fetch a can of blinker fluid."
Origin
U.S. military motor-pool prank; also common in civilian garages.
Frequently asked questions
What is blinker fluid?
It's a fake vehicle fluid; there is no such thing, and the term is used to send inexperienced people on a pointless errand.
Why do people ask for blinker fluid?
It's a running prank in military motor pools and civilian garages to trick a newcomer, since turn signals use no fluid at all.
Where is the term used?
It's common in U.S. military motor-pool humor and also familiar in ordinary car garages.
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