Wiper Switch

Replace the windshield wiper switch (stalk) on the steering column by removing steering column covers and disconnecting the electrical connector.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Windshield wiper switch assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and apply the parking brake
2. Turn the ignition to the OFF position and remove the key
3. Open the hood and disconnect the negative battery terminal using a 10mm socket, then wait 5 minutes for airbag system capacitors to discharge
4. Position the steering wheel in the straight-ahead position and lock it if possible to prevent clockspring rotation
5. Protect the lower dash trim and knee bolster area with masking tape or a cloth to prevent scratching during tool use

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower steering column cover
   Locate the lower steering column cover beneath the steering wheel. Remove the fasteners securing the lower cover (verify exact fastener count, locations, and driver size for this vehicle; check the perimeter and underside of the cover for all attachment points). Gently pull the lower cover downward and away from the column, being mindful of any clips along the edges. Set the cover aside in a protected area.
2. 2

   Remove upper steering column cover
   With the lower cover removed, locate the upper steering column cover. Remove the fasteners securing the upper cover (verify exact fastener count, locations, and driver size for this vehicle along the top and sides). Carefully separate the upper cover from the column, working around the wiper and turn signal stalks. You may need to tilt or angle the cover to clear the stalks. Set the cover aside.
3. 3

   Locate wiper switch assembly
   With both column covers removed, identify the wiper switch assembly on the steering column (verify left or right side position for this specific vehicle before proceeding). The switch assembly includes the stalk and the mounting bracket that attaches to the column.. The switch assembly includes the stalk and the mounting bracket that attaches to the column. Note the routing of the wiring harness from the switch to the column connector. Note: identify the wiper switch assembly on the steering column (confirm which side the wiper stalk is mounted on the actual vehicle, as this varies with LHD/RHD configuration)
4. 4

   Disconnect wiper switch electrical connector
   Follow the wiring harness from the wiper switch to its electrical connector on the steering column. Depress the locking tab on the connector and carefully pull the connector apart. Some connectors may have a secondary locking slide that must be moved before the primary tab can be released. Note the connector orientation for reassembly.
5. 5

   Remove wiper switch mounting fasteners
   Locate the fasteners securing the wiper switch assembly to the steering column bracket (verify exact count and driver size for this vehicle; some stalk assemblies use a single clamp screw or snap-in retention). Remove both fasteners completely and retain them for reinstallation.
6. 6

   Remove wiper switch assembly
   With the fasteners removed and electrical connector disconnected, carefully pull the wiper switch assembly away from the steering column. The stalk may need to be angled slightly to clear the column housing. Remove the assembly completely and set it aside.
7. 7

   Prepare new wiper switch
   Remove the new wiper switch assembly from its packaging and compare it to the old unit to verify correct replacement. Check that the electrical connector and mounting points match the original. Ensure the stalk operates smoothly through all positions before installation.
8. 8

   Install new wiper switch assembly
   Position the new wiper switch assembly onto the steering column bracket, aligning the mounting holes. Angle the stalk as needed to clear the column housing during installation. Insert the mounting fastener(s) (verify exact count and type against the factory service manual for this vehicle) and tighten them securely, ensuring the switch bracket sits flush against the column. Do not overtighten, as the mounting points are typically threaded into plastic or alloy brackets.
9. 9

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Connect the wiper switch electrical connector, ensuring it is fully seated and the locking tab clicks into place. If equipped with a secondary locking slide, slide it back into the locked position. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is secure.
10. 10

    Reinstall upper steering column cover
    Position the upper steering column cover around the wiper and turn signal stalks, ensuring the cover seats properly around the column. Insert and tighten the fasteners (verify exact count and driver type against the service manual) to secure the upper cover, working in a pattern that ensures even seating.
11. 11

    Reinstall lower steering column cover
    Position the lower steering column cover beneath the steering column, aligning any locating clips or tabs. Press the cover into place and insert the fasteners (verify exact count and driver type against the service manual), tightening them securely. Verify that all edges of the cover are flush and aligned properly.
12. 12

    Reconnect battery and test
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal and tighten the clamp bolt securely (verify the exact socket size and torque specification in the vehicle service manual). Turn the ignition to the ON position (engine does not need to start). Test all wiper switch functions: intermittent wipe at all settings, low speed, high speed, and washer function. Verify the wiper motor responds correctly to all switch positions and returns to the park position when turned off. Note: Reconnect the negative battery terminal (battery is located in the trunk on the DB9) using the appropriate socket and tighten securely.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Reassembly is performed in reverse order of disassembly
2. Ensure all steering column cover fasteners are tightened and covers are properly seated to prevent rattles
3. Verify the wiper stalk operates smoothly without binding or interference with the column covers

Verification

• Test all wiper switch functions with the ignition ON: intermittent (all delay settings), low speed, high speed, single wipe, and washer activation
• Verify wipers return to the park position when the switch is turned off
• Check that the wiper stalk returns to the neutral position smoothly after each operation
• Inspect all steering column covers for proper fitment and secure attachment
• Verify no warning lights are illuminated on the instrument cluster related to the wiper system

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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