Dimmer Switch

Replace the headlight dimmer switch (multi-function switch) on a 2005 Dodge Viper by removing the steering column covers and disconnecting the switch assembly from the column.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Multi-function switch (dimmer/turn signal) × 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 using 10mm wrench and isolate cable away from battery post.
4. Wait minimum 2 minutes for airbag system capacitor discharge.
5. Adjust steering column to lowest tilt position for easier access to upper column covers.

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower steering column cover
   Locate the lower steering column cover beneath the steering wheel. Remove the 2 Torx screws securing the lower cover (one on each side near the column adjustment lever area). Gently pull the lower cover downward and away from the column to release any remaining clips. Set aside.
2. 2

   Remove upper steering column cover
   With the lower cover removed, locate the 2 Torx screws securing the upper steering column cover (typically at the bottom edge where it meets the removed lower section). Remove these screws. Carefully lift the upper cover upward and back, maneuvering it over the steering wheel if necessary. The cover may need to flex slightly to clear the multi-function switch stalks.
3. 3

   Locate multi-function switch assembly
   With both column covers removed, identify the multi-function switch assembly on the left side of the steering column. This assembly includes the turn signal stalk and dimmer control (high/low beam selected by pulling the stalk toward the driver, with flash-to-pass function). Note the electrical connector location at the base of the switch where it mounts to the column.
4. 4

   Disconnect switch electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector at the base of the multi-function switch assembly. Press the locking tab on the connector and carefully pull the connector straight out from the switch. If access is restricted, a small flathead screwdriver can help depress the locking tab.
5. 5

   Remove multi-function switch mounting fasteners
   Locate the 2 Torx screws securing the multi-function switch assembly to the steering column housing. These screws are typically positioned on the outboard side of the switch mounting bracket. Remove both screws completely using the appropriate Torx driver (verify exact size against factory service documentation).
6. 6

   Remove multi-function switch from column
   With the mounting screws removed and electrical connector disconnected, carefully pull the multi-function switch assembly away from the steering column. The switch should slide straight out from its mounting position. Avoid twisting or forcing the switch to prevent damaging the mounting bosses or the switch housing.
7. 7

   Install new multi-function switch
   Position the new multi-function switch assembly onto the steering column, aligning the mounting holes with the threaded bosses in the column housing. Slide the switch fully into position, ensuring it seats properly against the column. Install the 2 Torx mounting screws and tighten to specification.
8. 8

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Plug the electrical connector into the base of the new multi-function switch. Push firmly until you hear or feel the locking tab engage. Gently pull on the connector to verify it is secure.
9. 9

   Reinstall upper steering column cover
   Position the upper steering column cover over the column, maneuvering it around the multi-function switch stalks. Align the cover mounting holes with the threaded bosses on the column. Install the 2 Torx screws and tighten to specification.
10. 10

    Reinstall lower steering column cover
    Position the lower steering column cover beneath the column, aligning any clips or tabs with their corresponding receptacles. Press firmly to engage clips. Install the 2 Torx screws at the sides of the lower cover and tighten to specification.
11. 11

    Reconnect battery and clear codes
    Reconnect the battery negative terminal and tighten to specification. Turn the ignition to ON position (do not start engine). Verify that no warning lights remain illuminated on the instrument cluster. If an airbag warning light persists after a normal key-on self-test, do not ignore it — diagnose with a scan tool, as it indicates a fault in the SRS system rather than a normal battery-disconnect condition.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. All steering column covers must be fully seated and secured to prevent rattles.
2. Verify the multi-function switch stalks operate smoothly without binding against the steering column covers.
3. Ensure no wiring is pinched between column covers during installation.

Verification

• With ignition ON, operate the dimmer switch through all positions (low beam, high beam, flash-to-pass) and verify proper headlight operation.
• Test turn signal operation in both left and right positions to confirm full multi-function switch operation.
• Verify hazard light function operates correctly.
• Confirm no airbag warning light remains illuminated after reconnecting battery.
• Check that all steering column covers are secure with no rattles when moving the steering wheel.

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