Combination Switch

Removal and replacement of the steering column combination switch (turn signal, wiper, and cruise control stalk assembly) on a 2005 Dodge Viper.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Combination switch assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface with front wheels pointed straight ahead.
2. Turn ignition to LOCK position and remove key.
3. Disconnect battery negative terminal using 10mm socket.
4. Wait at least 2 minutes for airbag system capacitors to discharge.
5. Set parking brake and chock rear wheels.

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove Lower Steering Column Cover
   Locate the lower steering column cover beneath the steering column. Remove the fasteners securing the lower cover (typically 2 or 3 Torx screws accessible from below). Gently pull the lower cover away from the column and set aside.
2. 2

   Remove Upper Steering Column Cover
   With the lower cover removed, locate the upper steering column cover fasteners. Remove the Torx screws securing the upper cover (typically 2 screws at the bottom edge). Separate the upper cover halves if applicable and lift away from the steering column, routing it over the steering wheel rim if necessary.
3. 3

   Locate Combination Switch Assembly
   With column covers removed, identify the combination switch assembly mounted to the left side of the steering column. The assembly includes the turn signal/hazard stalk and wiper/washer stalk. Note the electrical connector routing before proceeding.
4. 4

   Disconnect Electrical Connectors
   Locate the electrical connector(s) for the combination switch. Depress the locking tab on each connector and carefully disconnect from the switch assembly. There are typically 2 connectors on this platform. Note connector orientation for reassembly.
5. 5

   Remove Combination Switch Mounting Fasteners
   Locate the mounting screws securing the combination switch to the steering column bracket (typically 2 Torx screws). Use T20 or T25 Torx driver to remove these screws completely. Keep fasteners organized for reinstallation.
6. 6

   Remove Combination Switch Assembly
   With mounting fasteners removed and connectors disconnected, carefully pull the combination switch assembly away from the steering column. Maneuver the assembly past any wiring harness clips or guides. Inspect the mounting bracket on the column for damage or wear.
7. 7

   Install New Combination Switch Assembly
   Position the new combination switch assembly onto the steering column mounting bracket, ensuring proper alignment with the mounting holes. Route electrical connectors to avoid pinching. Insert and hand-tighten the mounting screws, then torque evenly in a cross pattern to secure the assembly firmly without overtightening the plastic mounting points.
8. 8

   Reconnect Electrical Connectors
   Connect the electrical connectors to the combination switch assembly, ensuring each connector clicks into place with the locking tab fully engaged. Verify that connectors are properly seated and that wiring is not pinched or stretched.
9. 9

   Reinstall Upper Steering Column Cover
   Position the upper steering column cover halves around the steering column, ensuring proper alignment with the lower cover mounting points. Install the Torx screws and tighten securely. Verify that the cover does not interfere with combination switch operation.
10. 10

    Reinstall Lower Steering Column Cover
    Position the lower steering column cover beneath the column, aligning with the upper cover and mounting points. Install the Torx screws and tighten securely. Check that all cover edges are properly seated and aligned.
11. 11

    Reconnect Battery and Test
    Reconnect the battery negative terminal. Turn ignition to ON position (engine off). Test all combination switch functions: turn signals (left/right), hazard lights, windshield wipers (all speeds), windshield washer, and high beam. Note that the 2005 Viper is typically not equipped with cruise control. Verify indicator lights illuminate correctly on the instrument cluster.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated with locking tabs engaged before reinstalling column covers.
2. Verify steering wheel remains centered and has not rotated during the procedure to maintain clockspring alignment.
3. Tighten column cover fasteners snugly but do not overtighten, as excessive force can crack plastic mounting bosses.

Verification

• Test turn signals in both directions and verify proper flash rate and cancel function.
• Test windshield wipers in all speed settings including intermittent, low, and high.
• Test windshield washer function and verify proper pump operation.
• Test high beam headlight function and flash-to-pass feature.
• Test cruise control set, resume, coast, and cancel functions if equipped.
• Verify hazard lights function with all four corners flashing simultaneously.
• Check that all indicator lights on instrument cluster respond correctly to switch inputs.
• Confirm no warning lights remain illuminated on instrument cluster after testing.

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