This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the combination switch (multifunction switch) on the steering column, which controls turn signals, headlights, wipers, and cruise control.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Combination switch assembly × 1 — GM 23445994 or equivalent
• Steering column cover clips (if broken) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground with wheels pointed straight ahead
2. Set parking brake and place transmission in Park
3. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key
4. Disconnect negative battery cable and wait minimum 2 minutes for airbag system capacitor discharge
5. Tilt steering wheel to lowest position and extend fully outward for access

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect battery
   Using appropriate wrench, loosen negative battery terminal bolt and remove negative cable. Secure cable away from battery post. Wait minimum 2 minutes before proceeding to allow airbag system to fully discharge.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove lower steering column cover
   Locate and remove the T20 Torx screws securing the lower steering column cover (typically 2-3 screws on underside). Carefully pull lower cover down and away from column. Disconnect any wire harnesses for auxiliary switches if equipped.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws14 Nm (10 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Remove upper steering column cover
   Remove T20 Torx screws securing upper steering column cover (typically 2 screws). Gently separate upper cover from column, being careful not to break retaining clips. Note position of any clips for reassembly.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws14 Nm (10 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Access combination switch mounting
   With covers removed, locate the combination switch assembly on the left side of the steering column. Identify the electrical connectors (typically 2-3 connectors) and mounting screws. Note routing of wiring harness for reinstallation.
5. 5

   Disconnect electrical connectors
   Press connector locking tabs and carefully disconnect all electrical connectors from the combination switch. There are typically two large connectors: one for turn signal/hazard and one for wiper/washer functions. Label connectors if necessary for reinstallation.
6. 6

   Remove combination switch mounting fasteners
   Remove the T30 Torx screws securing the combination switch bracket to the steering column (typically 2 screws). Support the switch assembly while removing final fastener to prevent it from dropping.
   Torque spec

   Bracket Bolts26 Nm (19 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Remove combination switch assembly
   Carefully slide the combination switch assembly away from the steering column. Guide the wiring harness through any retaining clips or brackets. Inspect the mounting area and clockspring for any damage or debris.
8. 8

   Prepare new combination switch
   Unpack new combination switch assembly and compare to old unit to verify correct replacement. Ensure all electrical connectors match and lever positions are identical. Check that mounting holes align properly.
9. 9

   Install new combination switch
   Position new combination switch onto steering column, carefully routing wiring harness through any clips or brackets. Align mounting holes with column bracket. Ensure switch is fully seated before installing fasteners.
10. 10

    Install mounting fasteners
    Install T30 Torx screws into combination switch bracket and tighten to specification using torque wrench. Verify switch assembly is secure and does not move or rotate on column.
    Torque spec

    Bracket Bolts26 Nm (19 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reconnect electrical connectors
    Connect all electrical connectors to combination switch, ensuring each connector locks fully into place with an audible click. Gently tug each connector to verify secure connection. Route harness to prevent pinching during cover installation.
12. 12

    Reinstall steering column covers
    Position upper steering column cover and align all clips. Install and tighten T20 Torx screws to specification. Position lower cover, reconnect any auxiliary switch harnesses, align clips, and install screws to specification.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws14 Nm (10 lb-ft)
13. 13

    Reconnect battery
    Reconnect negative battery cable to negative battery post. Tighten 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 seated with no gaps
2. Verify all retaining clips are engaged and no wiring is pinched
3. Return steering wheel tilt and telescope to desired driving position

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position without starting engine and verify no airbag warning lights remain illuminated after initialization
• Test turn signal operation in both left and right positions, verify cancel function works
• Test high beam and low beam headlight switch operation
• Test windshield wiper operation in all speed settings including intermittent
• Test windshield washer spray function
• If equipped, test cruise control set, resume, and cancel functions
• Test hazard light function with ignition off
• Verify all functions return to center/off position properly
• Start engine and retest all combination switch functions under normal operating conditions

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