Turn Signal Switch

Remove and replace the turn signal switch located in the steering column, requiring removal of the steering wheel and column components.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Turn signal switch assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Steering wheel nut (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Disconnect negative battery cable and isolate from battery post
2. Position front wheels in straight-ahead position
3. Set parking brake and place transmission in Park or first gear
4. Allow engine to cool completely if recently driven

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove steering wheel horn components
   Remove the horn button or center cap by prying gently or removing retaining screws depending on style. Disconnect horn wire from terminal. Use masking tape to mark the steering wheel position relative to the steering shaft for proper alignment during reassembly.
2. 2

   Remove steering wheel
   Remove the steering wheel retaining nut. Install steering wheel puller and tighten evenly to remove steering wheel from shaft. Do not strike the steering shaft or use excessive force. Remove steering wheel and set aside in safe location.
3. 3

   Remove turn signal canceling cam and spring
   Remove the turn signal canceling cam from the top of the steering shaft. Remove the upper bearing spring and thrust washer if equipped. Keep these components in order for reassembly.
4. 4

   Remove lockplate cover and lockplate
   Remove the three screws securing the lockplate cover. Using snap ring pliers, compress the lockplate enough to remove the snap ring from the steering shaft groove. Remove the lockplate and set aside the snap ring in a safe location.
5. 5

   Remove turn signal lever and hazard switch knob
   Unscrew and remove the turn signal lever by rotating counterclockwise. If equipped with hazard warning switch, remove the hazard warning knob by pulling straight out or depressing retaining tab.
6. 6

   Label and disconnect turn signal switch wiring
   Before disconnecting, use masking tape to label each wire connection for reference during installation. Disconnect the turn signal switch wiring connector at the base of the steering column. If connector is not accessible, you may need to remove lower column cover.
7. 7

   Remove turn signal switch mounting screws
   Remove the three screws securing the turn signal switch to the steering column housing. Note the location and length of each screw as they may differ.
8. 8

   Remove turn signal switch assembly
   Carefully pull the turn signal switch up and out of the steering column while guiding the wiring harness through the column. Take care not to snag wires on any internal components. If wires are routed through column, you may need to carefully feed them through.
9. 9

   Install new turn signal switch
   Feed the new turn signal switch wiring harness down through the steering column housing in the same routing as original. Position the switch onto the steering column housing, aligning mounting screw holes. Install and tighten the three mounting screws securely.
10. 10

    Connect turn signal switch wiring
    Connect the turn signal switch wiring connector at the base of the column, matching wire colors to your reference labels. Ensure all connections are secure and properly seated.
11. 11

    Reinstall turn signal lever and hazard knob
    Thread the turn signal lever into the switch housing and tighten clockwise until snug. Install hazard warning knob by pushing firmly onto switch actuator or aligning retaining tab.
12. 12

    Reinstall lockplate and cover
    Position lockplate onto steering shaft. Compress lockplate using snap ring pliers and install snap ring into shaft groove, ensuring it is fully seated. Install lockplate cover and secure with three screws.
13. 13

    Reinstall canceling cam components and steering wheel
    Install thrust washer, upper bearing spring, and turn signal canceling cam onto shaft. Align steering wheel with marks made during disassembly and install onto shaft. Install steering wheel retaining nut and tighten securely (typically 20-25 ft-lbs for this application).
14. 14

    Reinstall horn components
    Connect horn wire to terminal and install horn button or center cap. Ensure proper engagement of retaining mechanism.

Reassembly

1. Reconnect negative battery cable
2. Verify steering wheel is properly centered with wheels straight ahead
3. Check that all column covers and trim pieces are securely installed

Verification

• Turn ignition to ACC or ON position without starting engine
• Test turn signals in both left and right positions - verify front and rear lamps flash
• Verify turn signal canceling mechanism works by rotating steering wheel through a turn
• Test hazard warning switch - all four turn signal lamps should flash simultaneously
• Test high beam switch and dimmer functions if integrated into switch assembly
• Verify horn operation by pressing horn button
• Check that steering wheel returns to center properly and turn signal cancels automatically

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