Wiper Switch

Remove and replace the wiper switch (multifunction stalk) on a 1992 Dodge Viper by disconnecting the battery, removing steering column covers, and swapping the switch assembly.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Wiper/washer multifunction switch × 1 — Mopar 56005413 or equivalent

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake.
2. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key.
3. Open hood and locate battery in engine compartment.
4. Allow vehicle to sit for 5 minutes after battery disconnection to dissipate residual electrical charge.

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect Battery
   Using a 10mm socket, loosen and remove the negative battery terminal bolt. Lift the negative cable away from the battery post and secure it away from the terminal to prevent accidental reconnection. The positive terminal does not need to be disconnected for this procedure. Note: Locate the battery, which on the 1992 Viper is mounted in the rear of the vehicle rather than the engine compartment.
   Torque spec

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

   Adjust Steering Column Position
   The 1992 Viper does not have a tilt steering column, so no steering wheel adjustment is required before removing the column covers.
3. 3

   Remove Lower Steering Column Cover
   Locate the 2 screws at the bottom of the lower steering column cover (visible from underneath the column). Remove these screws using a Phillips screwdriver. Gently pull the lower cover downward and away from the column, disengaging the retaining clips at the rear. Set the lower cover aside.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Remove Upper Steering Column Cover
   With the lower cover removed, locate the 2 screws securing the upper steering column cover (one on each side near the instrument cluster). Remove these screws using a Phillips screwdriver. Carefully lift the upper cover straight up, working it over the wiper and turn signal stalks. The cover will slide up and off the steering column. Set aside.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Locate Wiper Switch Assembly
   With both column covers removed, the wiper/washer multifunction switch will be visible on the right side of the steering column (driver's perspective). The switch assembly is a black plastic housing with the wiper stalk extending outward and an electrical connector on the back side facing the firewall.
6. 6

   Disconnect Wiper Switch Electrical Connector
   Locate the electrical connector on the rear of the wiper switch assembly. Press the locking tab on the connector and pull it straight back to disconnect it from the switch. Note the connector orientation for reinstallation. Allow the connector to hang freely.
7. 7

   Remove Wiper Switch Mounting Fasteners
   The wiper switch is secured to the steering column by 2 Phillips head screws located on the top and bottom of the switch housing. Remove both screws completely using a Phillips screwdriver. Keep these screws as they will be reused with the new switch.
   Torque spec

   Connector Screws4 Nm (3 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Remove Wiper Switch from Column
   With the mounting screws removed, carefully pull the wiper switch assembly straight away from the steering column. The switch will slide off the column shaft. Inspect the mounting bracket on the column for any damage or debris and clean if necessary.
9. 9

   Install New Wiper Switch
   Align the new wiper switch assembly with the mounting bracket on the steering column. Slide the switch onto the column shaft, ensuring it seats fully against the bracket. The switch should only fit in one orientation. Install the 2 mounting screws and tighten them using a Phillips screwdriver to the specified torque.
   Torque spec

   Connector Screws4 Nm (3 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reconnect Electrical Connector
    Push the electrical connector firmly into the back of the wiper switch until it clicks into place. Verify the locking tab has engaged. Gently tug on the connector to confirm it is secure.
11. 11

    Reinstall Upper Steering Column Cover
    Position the upper steering column cover over the wiper and turn signal stalks, working it down onto the column. Ensure the cover seats properly around the column perimeter and that both stalks move freely through their openings. Install the 2 cover screws on each side and tighten to specification.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Reinstall Lower Steering Column Cover
    Position the lower steering column cover under the column, engaging the rear retaining clips first. Press the cover upward until it snaps into place against the upper cover. Install the 2 lower cover screws and tighten to specification.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
13. 13

    Reconnect Battery
    Return to the battery and position the negative cable terminal over the negative battery post. Install the terminal bolt and tighten to the specified torque using a 10mm socket and torque wrench. Ensure the connection is secure but do not overtighten.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Reassembly follows removal in reverse order.
2. Ensure all steering column cover clips are properly engaged before installing screws.
3. Verify the wiper stalk moves smoothly through all positions (off, intermittent, low, high) without binding against the column covers.
4. Double-check that the electrical connector is fully seated and locked before testing the system.

Verification

• Turn the ignition to the ON position (engine does not need to run).
• Test the wiper switch through all positions: OFF, intermittent (all delay settings if equipped), low speed, and high speed. Wipers should operate smoothly in each mode.
• Test the washer function by pulling the wiper stalk toward you. Washer pump should activate and spray fluid on the windshield.
• Verify the wiper stalk returns to the correct position after each operation and that no warning lights appear on the instrument cluster.
• Check that all steering column covers are secure with no gaps or rattles.
• Confirm the steering wheel moves freely through its tilt range without interference from the column covers.

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