Remove and replace the steering column combination switch (turn signal/wiper/multifunction switch) on a 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV electric vehicle.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Combination switch assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Steering column cover fasteners (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage electronic parking brake
2. Turn vehicle completely off using power button
3. Center steering wheel and turn off all electrical accessories
4. Open hood and locate 12V battery in front compartment
5. Disconnect 12V battery negative terminal and secure cable away from battery post
6. Wait minimum 2 minutes for airbag system capacitors to discharge
7. Remove ignition key fob from vehicle interior

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect 12V battery negative terminal
   Using a 10mm socket, loosen the negative battery terminal bolt. Remove the cable from the battery post and secure it away from the terminal to prevent accidental reconnection. Wait a minimum of 2 minutes before proceeding to allow airbag system capacitors to fully discharge.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Remove lower steering column cover
   Locate the lower steering column cover beneath the steering wheel. Remove the cover screws using a T20 Torx driver. Carefully pull the lower cover away from the column, releasing any remaining clips. Set cover and fasteners aside in a clean location.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Remove upper steering column cover
   With the lower cover removed, access the upper steering column cover fasteners. Remove the cover screws using a T20 Torx driver. Separate the upper cover from the steering column, being careful not to damage any wiring harnesses. Place cover and hardware with lower cover components.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Locate and photograph combination switch connectors
   With steering column covers removed, identify the combination switch assembly on the steering column. Locate all electrical connectors attached to the switch (typically 2-3 connectors). Take clear photographs of connector positions and wire routing for reference during reinstallation.
5. 5

   Disconnect electrical connectors
   Press the locking tab on each electrical connector while gently pulling the connector away from the combination switch. Do not pull on wires directly. If connectors are difficult to remove, use a small flatblade screwdriver to carefully release locking tabs. Inspect connectors for corrosion or damage.
6. 6

   Remove combination switch mounting screws
   Locate the screws securing the combination switch to the steering column (typically 2-3 connector-style screws). Using a T20 Torx driver, remove these fasteners completely. Keep all screws organized as they may be of different lengths.
   Torque spec

   Connector Screws4 Nm (3 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Remove combination switch assembly
   With all fasteners and electrical connections removed, carefully slide the combination switch assembly away from the steering column. Note the orientation and position of the switch. Check that no wiring is caught or pinched during removal. Inspect the mounting location on the steering column for damage or debris.
8. 8

   Inspect and prepare new combination switch
   Compare the new combination switch to the removed unit to verify correct replacement part. Inspect electrical connector pins on the new switch for any damage or contamination. If needed, clean connector pins with electrical contact cleaner and allow to dry completely. Verify all mounting tabs and alignment features are intact.
9. 9

   Install new combination switch
   Position the new combination switch onto the steering column in the correct orientation, aligning all mounting holes and ensuring proper engagement with the column shaft. Verify the switch moves freely through all positions (turn signals, wipers) before securing. Do not force the switch into position.
10. 10

    Install and torque mounting screws
    Insert all combination switch mounting screws and hand-tighten. Using a torque wrench, tighten the connector screws to specification in a cross-pattern to ensure even pressure. Verify the switch remains properly aligned and operates smoothly after tightening.
    Torque spec

    Connector Screws4 Nm (3 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reconnect electrical connectors
    Referring to photographs taken during disassembly, reconnect all electrical connectors to the combination switch. Ensure each connector locks positively with an audible click. Gently tug on each connector to verify secure connection. Route wiring to avoid pinch points when reinstalling covers.
12. 12

    Reinstall steering column covers
    Position the upper steering column cover onto the column, ensuring all tabs align properly. Install and torque the cover screws to specification. Install the lower steering column cover, aligning all clips and fasteners. Install and torque the lower cover screws. Verify both covers fit flush with no gaps.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
13. 13

    Reconnect 12V battery
    Return to the 12V battery. Clean the negative battery terminal and cable end if corrosion is present. Reconnect the negative battery cable to the battery post. Torque the battery terminal bolt to specification, being careful not to overtighten and damage the terminal.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all steering column covers are properly secured with no gaps or misalignment
2. Verify all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
3. Confirm no tools or hardware remain in the steering column area
4. Check that steering wheel movement is not obstructed by any wiring

Verification

• Turn vehicle to Accessory mode without starting and verify no warning lights related to steering column functions
• Test turn signal operation in both left and right positions, verify proper flashing and cancellation
• Test high beam and low beam functions
• Test windshield wiper operation in all speed settings including intermittent
• Test washer fluid spray function
• Verify cruise control buttons function properly if equipped on combination switch
• Test lane keeping assist controls if equipped on combination switch
• Ensure all switch stalks return to center position properly
• Verify no abnormal noises from steering column during operation
• Scan for diagnostic trouble codes using OBD-II scanner to confirm no electrical faults

More procedures for this vehicle