Turn Signal Switch

Replace the turn signal switch on a 1992 Dodge Viper by removing the steering column covers, disconnecting the multifunction switch harness, and installing a new switch assembly.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Turn signal switch (multifunction switch) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
2. Turn the ignition off and remove the key.
3. Disconnect the negative battery cable and wait at least 2 minutes to allow the airbag system capacitor to discharge.
4. Position the steering wheel straight ahead for easier access to the column covers.

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower steering column cover
   Locate the Phillips screws securing the lower steering column cover. Remove the 2 screws from the bottom of the lower cover. Gently pull the lower cover downward and away from the column to release any remaining clips.
2. 2

   Remove upper steering column cover
   With the lower cover removed, locate the Phillips screws securing the upper steering column cover. Remove the 2 screws from the top of the upper cover. Carefully lift the upper cover upward and away from the column, ensuring any tabs at the rear are disengaged.
3. 3

   Access multifunction switch
   With both column covers removed, the multifunction switch assembly is now visible on the left side of the steering column. Observe the switch mounting and electrical connector routing before proceeding with removal.
4. 4

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Locate the wiring harness connector attached to the multifunction switch. Press the locking tab on the connector and pull it straight back to disconnect it from the switch. Note the connector orientation for reassembly.
5. 5

   Remove switch mounting screws
   Locate and remove the 2 Phillips screws securing the multifunction switch to the steering column. Support the switch as you remove the final screw to prevent it from falling.
6. 6

   Remove multifunction switch
   Carefully slide the multifunction switch assembly off the steering column shaft. Note the position of the switch actuator and any alignment features on the column for proper installation of the new switch.
7. 7

   Install new multifunction switch
   Position the new multifunction switch onto the steering column shaft, ensuring the switch actuator aligns with the cancelling cam on the column. Slide the switch into place until it seats fully against the column mounting surface.
8. 8

   Install switch mounting screws
   Install the multifunction switch mounting screws to secure the switch to the steering column. Tighten the screws evenly to the manufacturer's specified torque (verify count and value in the factory service manual).
   Torque spec

   Switch Mounting Screws3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Connect the wiring harness connector to the multifunction switch, ensuring it locks into place with an audible click. Verify the connector is fully seated and the locking tab is engaged.
10. 10

    Reinstall upper steering column cover
    Position the upper steering column cover over the column, ensuring all tabs align with their corresponding slots. Install the 2 Phillips screws at the top of the cover and tighten to the specified torque.
    Torque spec

    Steering Column Covers2 Nm (1.5 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reinstall lower steering column cover
    Position the lower steering column cover under the column and engage any clips or tabs. Install the 2 Phillips screws at the bottom of the cover and tighten to the specified torque. Verify both covers fit flush with no gaps.
    Torque spec

    Steering Column Covers2 Nm (1.5 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Reconnect battery and test
    Reconnect the negative battery cable. Turn the ignition to the ON position (engine off) and test all turn signal functions: left, right, hazard lights, and the self-cancelling feature by rotating the steering wheel. Verify turn signal, hazard, and headlight dimmer operation controlled by this switch.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall all components in reverse order of removal.
2. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked.
3. Verify steering column covers are properly aligned and all fasteners are torqued to specification before testing.

Verification

• With the ignition ON, test left turn signal operation and verify both front and rear indicators flash.
• Test right turn signal operation and verify both front and rear indicators flash.
• Test hazard light function and verify all four corner lights flash simultaneously.
• Turn the steering wheel through a full lock-to-lock cycle and verify the turn signals self-cancel after a turn.
• If equipped, test wiper and washer functions to ensure the multifunction switch is fully operational.
• Verify the instrument cluster turn signal indicators illuminate in sync with the exterior lights.

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