This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the ignition switch assembly on a 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, including removal of steering column covers and disconnection of electrical components.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Ignition switch assembly × 1 — ACDelco D1491J or equivalent
• Ignition switch retaining screw (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key
3. Disconnect negative battery cable and wait minimum 2 minutes for airbag system discharge
4. Tilt steering wheel to lowest position and telescope fully out for maximum working clearance
5. Remove driver's side knee bolster trim panel by removing Phillips screws and releasing clips

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove upper steering column cover
   Locate the Torx screws securing the upper steering column cover. Remove the two T20 Torx screws from the bottom of the upper cover. Carefully separate the upper cover from the lower cover by releasing the retaining tabs at the rear, then lift upward and away from the column.
2. 2

   Remove lower steering column cover
   Remove the T20 Torx screws securing the lower steering column cover. There are typically three screws: two on the bottom and one near the tilt lever. Carefully pull the lower cover away from the column, being mindful of the wiring for the tilt/telescope switch if equipped. Disconnect the tilt/telescope switch connector if necessary and remove the lower cover completely.
   Torque spec

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

   Disconnect steering column electrical connectors
   Locate the main ignition switch electrical connector on the right side of the steering column. Press the connector locking tab and carefully pull the connector straight back from the switch. If equipped with a secondary accessory connector, disconnect it as well. Note the routing of the wiring harness for reassembly.
4. 4

   Access ignition switch mounting
   Identify the ignition switch assembly mounted to the right side of the steering column, below the lock cylinder housing. The switch is typically secured with two small Torx screws. Ensure you have clear access to both mounting screws before proceeding.
5. 5

   Position lock cylinder for switch removal
   Insert the ignition key into the lock cylinder. Turn the key to the ACC (Accessory) position. This position allows the ignition switch actuator rod to be disengaged from the lock cylinder mechanism. Do not attempt to remove the switch in the OFF or LOCK position as the actuator will be engaged.
   ⚠The lock cylinder must be in ACC position to properly disengage the ignition switch actuator. Removing the switch in any other position can damage internal components.
6. 6

   Remove ignition switch mounting screws
   Using a T20 Torx driver, carefully remove the two ignition switch mounting screws. Support the switch body while removing the second screw to prevent it from dropping. Keep these screws in a safe location as they are typically reused unless damaged.
   Torque spec

   Switch Mounting Screws5 Nm (4 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Remove ignition switch assembly
   Gently pull the ignition switch assembly away from the steering column. The switch has a small actuator rod that engages with the lock cylinder mechanism. Carefully disengage this rod by pulling the switch straight out. If resistance is felt, verify the key is still in ACC position and the mounting screws are completely removed. Once clear, remove the switch completely from the vehicle.
8. 8

   Inspect actuator rod and mounting points
   Examine the actuator rod on the old switch for wear or damage. Inspect the mounting points on the steering column for any damage or loose fasteners. Check the lock cylinder actuation mechanism for smooth operation by turning the key through all positions. Clean any debris from the mounting surface using electrical contact cleaner if necessary.
9. 9

   Install new ignition switch
   Ensure the ignition key is in the ACC position. Position the new ignition switch near the mounting location with the actuator rod aligned with the lock cylinder mechanism. Carefully slide the switch onto the column, ensuring the actuator rod properly engages with the lock cylinder actuator. The switch should seat flush against the column mounting surface without forcing.
   ⚠Do not force the ignition switch into place. The actuator rod must align naturally with the lock cylinder mechanism. Forcing can bend the rod or damage the lock cylinder.
10. 10

    Secure ignition switch mounting screws
    Install the two ignition switch mounting screws by hand, ensuring they thread smoothly. Tighten both screws in a cross pattern to the specified torque using a torque wrench. Verify the switch is securely mounted and does not move when light pressure is applied.
    Torque spec

    Switch Mounting Screws5 Nm (4 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reconnect electrical connectors
    Reconnect the main ignition switch electrical connector by aligning the connector and pressing firmly until the locking tab clicks into place. Verify the connection is secure by gently pulling on the connector body. If equipped with a secondary accessory connector, reconnect it as well. Ensure wiring is properly routed and not pinched.
12. 12

    Reinstall steering column covers
    Position the lower steering column cover around the column. If equipped, reconnect the tilt/telescope switch connector. Install and hand-tighten the lower cover screws, then torque to specification. Position the upper cover over the column, engaging the rear retaining tabs first, then pressing down until it seats against the lower cover. Install the upper cover screws and torque to specification.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws14 Nm (10 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Reinstall driver's side knee bolster trim panel by aligning clips and securing Phillips screws
2. Return steering wheel to desired driving position
3. Reconnect negative battery cable
4. Perform ignition switch functional test before operating vehicle

Verification

• With brake pedal depressed, verify ignition key turns smoothly through all positions: LOCK, OFF, ACC, RUN, and START
• Confirm engine cranks and starts normally in PARK position only
• Verify key can only be removed in LOCK position
• Test that accessories (radio, power windows) operate correctly in ACC position without engine running
• Ensure steering wheel locks properly when key is removed and wheel is turned
• Check that all instrument cluster warning lights illuminate during key-on/engine-off cycle
• Verify no airbag warning light remains illuminated after starting (should extinguish after bulb check)
• Confirm all removed trim panels are secure with no rattles or loose clips

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