Combination Switch

Replace the steering column combination switch (turn signal, wiper, and hazard control) on a 1992 Dodge Viper, requiring steering column cover removal and electrical connector service.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Combination switch assembly × 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 battery negative terminal and wait 2 minutes for airbag system capacitor discharge
4. Position steering wheel in straight-ahead position
5. Allow steering column area to cool if vehicle was recently operated

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower steering column cover
   Locate the lower steering column cover beneath the steering column. Remove the retaining screws securing the lower cover (typically located at the bottom and sides of the cover). Gently pull the lower cover away from the column, disengaging any remaining clips. Set the lower cover aside.
2. 2

   Remove upper steering column cover
   With the lower cover removed, locate the upper steering column cover fasteners. Remove the screws securing the upper cover halves together. Carefully separate the two halves of the upper cover and lift them away from the steering column. Note the position of any guide tabs or alignment features for reassembly.
3. 3

   Access combination switch mounting area
   With both column covers removed, the combination switch assembly is now visible on the left side of the steering column. Identify the switch mounting location and the electrical connectors at the base of the switch. Note the routing of the wiring harness before proceeding.
4. 4

   Mark and disconnect electrical connectors
   Use masking tape to mark each electrical connector and its corresponding position on the combination switch harness. The combination switch typically has 2-3 multi-pin connectors for turn signal, wiper, and hazard functions. Depress the locking tabs on each connector and carefully pull straight out to disconnect. Do not pull on wiring, only on connector bodies.
5. 5

   Remove combination switch mounting fasteners
   Locate the 2 mounting screws securing the combination switch to the steering column jacket. These screws are typically Phillips-head and positioned on the outboard side of the switch housing. Remove both screws completely and retain for reinstallation.
6. 6

   Remove combination switch assembly
   With fasteners removed and connectors disconnected, carefully slide the combination switch assembly away from the steering column. The switch may have a guide channel or slot that requires slight rotation or angling to clear the column. Guide the wiring harness through any retaining clips as you remove the switch. Inspect the old switch for wear patterns or damage.
7. 7

   Prepare new combination switch
   Remove the new combination switch from packaging and compare it to the old unit to verify correct application. Check that all electrical connector bodies are clean and free of corrosion. If present, remove any protective caps from the connector pins. Transfer any mounting brackets or hardware from the old switch if they are not included with the replacement.
8. 8

   Install new combination switch
   Route the new combination switch wiring harness into position, guiding it through any column-mounted retaining clips. Align the switch mounting bracket with the steering column jacket, ensuring any guide channels or slots engage properly. Slide the switch into position until the mounting holes align with the column.
9. 9

   Install combination switch mounting fasteners
   Install the 2 mounting screws through the switch bracket into the steering column jacket. Start both screws by hand to ensure proper thread engagement. Tighten the screws snugly and evenly by hand until seated (OEM torque not published for this fastener); do not overtighten. Do not overtighten as this may crack the switch housing or damage the column jacket.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reconnect electrical connectors
    Using the masking tape markings as reference, reconnect each electrical connector to the corresponding port on the combination switch. Push each connector firmly until the locking tab clicks into place. Gently tug on each connector body to verify secure engagement. Remove the marking tape after all connections are verified.
11. 11

    Reinstall upper steering column cover
    Position the upper steering column cover halves around the column, ensuring the combination switch stalk passes through the appropriate opening. Align the guide tabs and mating surfaces of the upper cover halves. Install and tighten the screws securing the upper cover halves together, working from front to back.
12. 12

    Reinstall lower steering column cover
    Position the lower steering column cover beneath the column, aligning any mounting clips with their receptacles. Press the cover into place until clips engage. Install and tighten the retaining screws to secure the lower cover to the column and upper cover assembly.
13. 13

    Reconnect battery and initialize system
    Reconnect the battery negative terminal and tighten the clamp securely per OEM specification (verify value in service manual). Turn the ignition to the ON position (do not start engine) and verify turn signal, hazard, wiper, and high-beam functions operate before returning the vehicle to service.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all column cover fasteners are tightened and covers are properly seated with no gaps
2. Verify wiring harness routing does not interfere with steering column movement or adjustments
3. Confirm combination switch stalks return to center position smoothly after operation

Verification

• With ignition ON, verify turn signal indicator lights flash on instrument cluster when left or right signal is activated
• Test hazard function by pressing hazard switch and confirming all four turn signals flash simultaneously
• Verify windshield wiper operation in all positions (intermittent, low, high) and confirm washer spray activates properly
• Test high beam operation and confirm indicator illuminates on instrument cluster
• Cycle steering wheel lock-to-lock while stationary to ensure no binding or interference with column covers
• Start engine and retest all combination switch functions under running conditions

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