Ignition Switch

This procedure replaces the ignition switch assembly on a 1992 Dodge Viper, requiring removal of lower steering column covers and disconnection of the electrical connector.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Ignition switch assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and set parking brake
2. Disconnect negative battery cable and wait at least 2 minutes
3. Ensure steering wheel is in straight-ahead position
4. Adjust driver's seat fully rearward for working clearance
5. Turn ignition key to LOCK position and remove key

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower steering column covers
   Locate the fasteners securing the lower steering column cover. Remove the Phillips screws securing the upper and lower column covers (typically 2 screws on the lower cover). Carefully separate the lower cover from the upper cover by releasing any retaining clips, then pull the lower cover away from the column. Remove the upper cover in the same manner if it interferes with switch access.
2. 2

   Locate ignition switch assembly
   With the column covers removed, locate the ignition switch on the steering column. The switch is mounted on the side or bottom of the steering column jacket, connected to the lock cylinder actuator rod. The switch will have a multi-pin electrical connector attached.
3. 3

   Disconnect ignition switch electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector on the ignition switch body. Press the locking tab on the connector and pull it straight away from the switch. If the connector is difficult to access, use a small pick tool to depress the locking tab while pulling the connector free. Do not pull on the wiring harness itself.
4. 4

   Remove ignition switch mounting fasteners
   Locate the fasteners securing the ignition switch to the steering column (typically 2 fasteners; verify exact type and size against the FSM). Using the appropriate driver, remove these fasteners completely and retain them if they are in good condition. Note the position of the switch actuator rod in relation to the lock cylinder.
5. 5

   Disengage switch from actuator rod
   Carefully disengage the ignition switch from the lock cylinder actuator rod. The switch may have a slotted connection or pin that slides into the actuator mechanism. Gently wiggle the switch while pulling it away from the column to separate it from the actuator rod. Note the orientation and position of the actuator rod for reassembly.
6. 6

   Remove ignition switch
   Once disengaged from the actuator rod, remove the ignition switch completely from the steering column. Inspect the actuator rod and lock cylinder mechanism for wear or damage. If the actuator rod appears bent or damaged, it should be addressed before installing the new switch.
7. 7

   Prepare new ignition switch
   Remove the new ignition switch from its packaging. Verify that the switch is in the LOCK position (actuator fully retracted). Compare the new switch to the old switch to confirm correct replacement part, checking the electrical connector configuration and mounting holes.
8. 8

   Install new ignition switch
   With the lock cylinder in the LOCK position and the key removed, align the new ignition switch actuator slot with the lock cylinder actuator rod. Slide the switch onto the rod, ensuring proper engagement. Position the switch against the steering column mounting surface, aligning the mounting holes. Install the tamper-resistant Torx fasteners finger-tight initially.
9. 9

   Torque switch mounting fasteners
   Using a torque wrench with the appropriate tamper-resistant Torx bit, torque the ignition switch mounting fasteners to specification. Tighten fasteners in an alternating pattern to ensure even seating of the switch against the column.
10. 10

    Reconnect electrical connector
    Push the electrical connector firmly onto the ignition switch until the locking tab clicks into place. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is fully seated and locked. Ensure the wiring harness has adequate slack and is not pinched or stressed.
11. 11

    Verify switch operation before reassembly
    Temporarily reconnect the negative battery cable. Insert the key and test the ignition switch through all positions: LOCK, ACC, ON, and START. Verify that the starter engages in START position and that all accessory functions operate correctly in ACC and ON positions. The key should return to ON position from START and should only be removable in LOCK position. Once verified, disconnect the battery again before reinstalling covers.
12. 12

    Reinstall steering column covers
    Position the upper steering column cover (if removed) around the column, ensuring proper alignment with the dash panel and any clip locations. Install the lower steering column cover, engaging all retaining clips. Install the Phillips screws securing the covers and tighten them snugly but do not overtighten to avoid cracking the plastic.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all wiring is properly routed and not pinched between covers or column components
2. Verify column covers are fully seated and all fasteners are installed
3. Return driver's seat to normal position

Verification

• Reconnect negative battery cable and allow vehicle systems to initialize
• Insert key and verify smooth operation through all switch positions: LOCK, ACC, ON, START
• Verify starter engages only in START position and disengages when key is released
• Confirm all dashboard warning lights illuminate in ON position
• Test that key can only be removed in LOCK position
• Verify steering wheel lock engages when key is removed and turned to LOCK
• Check that all accessory functions (radio, power windows, etc.) operate correctly in ACC position
• Start engine and verify all systems function normally

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