Combination Switch

Replacement of the steering column combination switch (turn signal/wiper/cruise control stalk assembly) on a 2009 Aston Martin DB9, requiring steering column shroud removal and electrical disconnection.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Combination switch assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and ensure transmission is in Park
2. Turn steering wheel to center position and note position for reassembly
3. Disconnect battery negative terminal using 10mm socket
4. Wait minimum 2 minutes for airbag system discharge
5. Adjust steering column to lowest and furthest forward position for access

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower steering column shroud
   Locate the Torx fasteners securing the lower steering column shroud. Remove the shroud fasteners from the underside of the lower shroud using the appropriate Torx bit (count and size to be verified against OEM documentation for the 2009 DB9). Carefully pull the lower shroud away from the column, being mindful of any clips at the rear edge near the dash interface. Note: Install the lower shroud Torx fasteners (count to be verified against OEM documentation for the 2009 DB9) on the underside of the lower shroud and tighten securely.
2. 2

   Remove upper steering column shroud
   With the lower shroud removed, locate the fasteners securing the upper steering column shroud. Remove the 2-3 Torx fasteners from the upper shroud assembly. Gently separate the upper shroud halves if applicable, and lift the upper shroud away from the steering column, clearing the combination switch stalks. Note: lift the upper shroud away from the steering column, clearing the combination switch stalks (note: the DB9 uses the ECU keyfob/start-button system rather than a conventional steering-column ignition cylinder)
3. 3

   Access combination switch mounting
   With both shrouds removed, the combination switch assembly is now visible on the left side of the steering column. Use a flashlight to identify the electrical connector(s) and mounting fasteners. The switch is secured to the column with mounting screws (quantity and Torx size to be verified against OEM documentation for the 2009 DB9).
4. 4

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Locate the primary electrical connector for the combination switch on the side of the switch body. Depress the locking tab on the connector and carefully pull the connector straight away from the switch housing. If present, disconnect any secondary connectors for additional switch functions. Note the routing of the wiring harness for reinstallation.
5. 5

   Remove combination switch mounting fasteners
   Remove the Torx mounting screws (quantity to be verified against OEM documentation for the 2009 DB9) securing the combination switch to the steering column bracket. Support the switch assembly as you remove the final fastener to prevent it from dropping or damaging the wiring.
6. 6

   Remove combination switch assembly
   Carefully slide the combination switch assembly away from the steering column, guiding the stalk(s) through the column opening. Note the orientation and position of the switch for proper installation of the replacement unit.
7. 7

   Prepare new combination switch
   Unpack the new combination switch and compare it to the removed unit to verify correct application. Check that all stalks move freely and that the electrical connector pins are clean and undamaged. If the new switch has a neutral position lock or transport clip, remove it per manufacturer instructions.
8. 8

   Install new combination switch
   Position the new combination switch onto the steering column bracket, aligning the mounting holes and guiding the stalk(s) through the column opening. Ensure the switch is oriented correctly with stalks in their proper positions (turn signal typically on left, wiper controls may be integrated or separate).
9. 9

   Secure combination switch mounting fasteners
   Install the Torx mounting screws (quantity to be verified against OEM documentation) and tighten to secure the switch to the column bracket. Tighten screws snugly but do not overtighten, as the mounting bracket is typically plastic or composite material. Tighten the mounting screws securely to the manufacturer-specified torque; verify the correct spec against Aston Martin service documentation and do not overtighten. Note: Install the mounting screws and tighten to the OEM-specified torque. Do not overtighten; if no spec is available, snug securely while being mindful of the mounting bracket material. Note: Tighten the mounting screws to the manufacturer-specified torque; do not overtighten. Specific torque values should be confirmed against Aston Martin service documentation for this application.
10. 10

    Reconnect electrical connector
    Route the wiring harness as noted during removal. Align the electrical connector with the combination switch receptacle and push firmly until the locking tab clicks into place. Verify the connector is fully seated by gently tugging on the connector body. Reconnect any secondary connectors if present.
11. 11

    Reinstall upper steering column shroud
    Position the upper steering column shroud over the column, ensuring the combination switch stalks pass through their respective openings. If the upper shroud is two-piece, join the halves around the column. Install the 2-3 Torx fasteners and tighten securely.
12. 12

    Reinstall lower steering column shroud
    Position the lower steering column shroud onto the column, aligning any clips at the rear edge with the dash interface. Ensure the shroud mates properly with the upper shroud. Install the 3 Torx fasteners on the underside of the lower shroud and tighten securely.
13. 13

    Reconnect battery and verify operation
    Reconnect the battery negative terminal and tighten securely to the manufacturer-specified torque (verify against Aston Martin service documentation). Turn the ignition to the ON position (do not start engine). Test all combination switch functions: turn signals (left and right with hazard function), wiper controls (all speeds and intermittent settings), washer function, and cruise control buttons if equipped. Verify all functions operate correctly and that indicator lights illuminate on the instrument cluster as expected. Note: Reconnect the battery negative terminal and tighten the clamp bolt to the manufacturer-specified torque (verify against OEM documentation for the 2009 DB9). Note: Reconnect the battery negative terminal and tighten the clamp bolt securely per manufacturer specification (typically approximately 5-8 Nm).
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all steering column shroud fasteners are properly tightened and shroud halves are flush with no gaps
2. Verify combination switch stalks return to neutral position and operate smoothly without binding
3. Return steering column to driver's preferred position after testing

Verification

• Test turn signals in both directions and verify proper flash rate and self-canceling function after steering wheel rotation
• Test all wiper speeds (intermittent, low, high) and washer function
• Test cruise control set, resume, cancel, and coast functions if equipped
• Verify all instrument cluster indicator lights respond correctly to switch inputs
• Confirm no warning lights related to airbag or steering systems remain illuminated after testing

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