Wiper Switch

Replace the windshield wiper control switch (multifunction lever) on the steering column of a 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV electric vehicle.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Windshield wiper multifunction switch assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and ensure it is powered off completely
2. Place steering wheel in the straight-ahead position and ensure the front wheels are pointing straight
3. Open the hood and locate the 12V auxiliary battery in the engine compartment
4. Disconnect the negative terminal from the 12V battery and secure the cable away from the terminal
5. Wait at least 2 minutes for all vehicle systems to fully power down
6. Ensure you have the new wiper switch assembly and verify it matches the original part

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower steering column covers
   Locate the lower steering column cover beneath the steering wheel. Remove the two T20 Torx screws securing the lower cover. Gently pull the lower cover down and away from the column. If equipped, disconnect any electrical connectors for the column tilt/telescoping switches before fully removing the cover.
2. 2

   Remove upper steering column cover
   With the lower cover removed, locate the upper steering column cover. Remove the two T20 Torx screws from the upper cover. Carefully separate the upper cover from the steering column by releasing the retaining clips at the rear. Lift the cover up and over the steering wheel if necessary, or slide it away from the column assembly.
3. 3

   Locate the wiper switch connector
   With both column covers removed, identify the wiper switch assembly on the right side of the steering column (multifunction lever). Trace the wiring harness from the switch to locate the electrical connector approximately 6-8 inches down the column. The connector will have a locking tab.
4. 4

   Disconnect wiper switch electrical connector
   Press the connector locking tab and carefully pull the connector apart. You may need to gently wiggle the connector while pulling to separate it. Ensure you do not pull on the wires themselves, only on the connector body. Note the routing of the harness for reinstallation.
5. 5

   Remove wiper switch mounting screws
   Locate the two connector screws securing the wiper switch assembly to the steering column housing. These are typically T15 Torx screws. Remove both screws completely and retain them for reinstallation. Support the switch assembly as you remove the second screw to prevent it from falling.
   Torque spec

   Connector Screws4 Nm (3 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Remove wiper switch assembly
   With the mounting screws removed and connector disconnected, carefully pull the wiper switch assembly straight out from the steering column. The switch may have a small alignment pin or tab that needs to clear the column housing. Note the orientation and position of the switch for proper installation of the new unit.
7. 7

   Install new wiper switch assembly
   Align the new wiper switch assembly with the mounting location on the steering column. Ensure any alignment pins or tabs are properly seated in their respective slots. Slide the switch into position until it is flush with the column housing. Verify the switch lever moves freely through all positions before securing.
8. 8

   Install and torque mounting screws
   Insert both connector screws through the switch assembly and into the steering column housing. Thread them by hand initially to ensure proper alignment. Using a torque wrench, tighten both screws to the specified torque in a cross-pattern to ensure even seating of the switch assembly.
   Torque spec

   Connector Screws4 Nm (3 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Route the wiper switch harness following the original path. Align the electrical connector halves and push them together firmly until you hear or feel the locking tab click into place. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is fully locked. Ensure no wires are pinched or kinked.
10. 10

    Reinstall steering column covers
    Position the upper steering column cover over the column, ensuring all clips align with their receptacles. Install the two T20 Torx screws but do not fully tighten yet. Position the lower column cover, reconnecting any tilt/telescoping switch connectors if equipped. Install the lower cover screws. Once both covers are properly aligned, tighten all cover screws securely but do not overtighten the plastic.
11. 11

    Reconnect battery and initialize systems
    Reconnect the negative terminal to the 12V auxiliary battery. Tighten the battery terminal bolt to the specified torque. Do not overtighten as this can damage the battery terminal or post.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all steering column covers are properly seated with no gaps and all retaining clips are engaged
2. Verify the wiper switch lever operates smoothly through all positions without binding
3. Check that no wiring harnesses are pinched between covers or components

Verification

• Power on the vehicle and verify the wiper switch operates correctly in all positions: off, intermittent (all speeds), low, and high
• Test the windshield washer function by pulling the wiper lever toward you
• Verify intermittent wiper delay adjustment functions properly if equipped
• Confirm the wiper switch returns to the correct position after releasing from the washer function
• Check that no warning lights or error messages appear on the instrument cluster related to the wiper system
• Operate the wipers in all modes and verify they park correctly when turned off

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