Ignition Switch

This procedure replaces the ignition switch on a 2005 Dodge Viper, requiring removal of steering column covers and disconnection of the electrical connector and lock cylinder linkage.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Ignition switch × 1 — Mopar 56010797AC or equivalent

Preparation

1. Park the vehicle on level ground and apply the parking brake.
2. Turn the ignition to the OFF position and remove the key.
3. Disconnect the negative battery cable and wait at least 2 minutes for airbag system capacitor discharge.
4. Adjust the steering column to its lowest tilt position and fully retracted for best access.
5. Ensure adequate lighting in the driver's footwell area.

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower steering column cover
   Locate the lower steering column cover beneath the steering wheel. Remove the screws securing the lower cover (typically 2-3 screws at the bottom edge). Gently pull the lower cover downward and away from the column to release any remaining clips. Set the cover aside.
2. 2

   Remove upper steering column cover
   With the lower cover removed, locate the fasteners securing the upper steering column cover. Remove the screws (typically 2 screws accessible from underneath once the lower cover is off). Separate the upper cover halves if applicable and remove from the steering column. You now have clear access to the ignition switch mounting area on the right side of the steering column.
3. 3

   Locate ignition switch assembly
   Identify the ignition switch mounted to the right side of the steering column housing, below the lock cylinder. The switch is a black plastic assembly with an electrical connector on the back and a mechanical actuator rod connecting it to the lock cylinder mechanism. Note the orientation of the switch and actuator rod position for reassembly.
4. 4

   Disconnect ignition switch electrical connector
   Press the locking tab on the ignition switch electrical connector and pull the connector straight back away from the switch body. The connector may be tight; use steady pressure rather than jerking motions. Support the switch with your other hand to avoid damaging the mounting points.
   ⚠Do not pull on the wiring harness itself. Always grasp the connector body to avoid damaging the wiring.
5. 5

   Remove ignition switch mounting fasteners
   Remove the 2 screws securing the ignition switch to the steering column housing. These are typically Torx or Phillips head screws. Keep track of these fasteners as they are specific to the switch mounting.
6. 6

   Disengage actuator rod and remove switch
   Carefully disengage the actuator rod from the lock cylinder mechanism by pulling the switch away from the column. The rod typically has a slotted or hooked connection. Note the exact position and orientation of the rod engagement for proper installation. Remove the ignition switch from the vehicle.
   ⚠The actuator rod connection is delicate. Use gentle manipulation to avoid bending or breaking the rod or switch components.
7. 7

   Prepare new ignition switch
   Compare the new ignition switch to the old unit to verify correct part number and configuration. Ensure the actuator rod on the new switch is in the correct position (typically in the 'LOCK' or 'OFF' position, matching the lock cylinder position). If the switch has a shipping pin or position lock, remove it according to manufacturer instructions.
8. 8

   Install new ignition switch
   Position the new ignition switch near the mounting location on the steering column. Carefully engage the actuator rod with the lock cylinder mechanism, ensuring the rod seats properly in its connection point. The switch should align naturally with the mounting holes. Guide the switch into position while maintaining rod engagement.
9. 9

   Install switch mounting fasteners
   Install the 2 mounting screws finger-tight initially to allow for minor adjustment. Verify the switch is properly seated and aligned with the column housing. Tighten the screws evenly to the specified torque.
   ⚠Do not overtighten the mounting screws as this can crack the plastic switch housing. Use proper torque specification.
   Torque spec

   Switch Mounting Screws5 Nm (4 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reconnect electrical connector
    Align the ignition switch electrical connector with the switch terminals and push firmly until the locking tab clicks into place. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is fully seated and locked.
11. 11

    Reinstall upper steering column cover
    Position the upper steering column cover (or cover halves) over the column, ensuring all clips and alignment tabs are properly seated. Install the retaining screws and tighten to specification.
12. 12

    Reinstall lower steering column cover
    Align the lower steering column cover with the upper cover and column assembly. Press firmly to engage any retaining clips. Install the lower cover screws and tighten to specification. Verify all covers are secure and properly aligned with no gaps.
13. 13

    Reconnect battery and test
    Reconnect the negative battery cable and tighten securely. Insert the ignition key and verify smooth operation through all key positions: LOCK, OFF, ACC, RUN, and START. The key should turn smoothly without binding, and should return properly from START to RUN position. Check that the steering wheel lock engages and releases properly when the key is turned.

Reassembly

1. Reinstallation is performed in reverse order of removal, following steps 8-13.
2. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked before reassembling covers.
3. Verify proper engagement of the actuator rod before securing the switch mounting screws.
4. Torque all fasteners to specification to prevent damage to plastic components.

Verification

• Turn the ignition key through all positions (LOCK, OFF, RUN, START) multiple times to verify smooth operation without binding or resistance.
• Verify the engine starts normally and the key returns properly from START to RUN position.
• Confirm the steering wheel lock engages when the key is removed and in LOCK position.
• Check that all dashboard warning lights and accessories operate normally in the RUN position.
• Verify all steering column covers are secure with no rattles or loose fasteners.
• Test the key removal function - the key should only be removable in the LOCK position with the steering wheel locked.

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