Turn Signal Switch

Remove and replace the turn signal switch assembly on a 2008 Dodge Viper by accessing the steering column and disconnecting the electrical harness.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Turn signal switch assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Steering column cover clips (if damaged) × 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 and wait minimum 2 minutes for airbag system capacitor discharge
4. Ensure front wheels are pointing straight ahead

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower steering column covers
   Locate the lower steering column cover beneath the steering wheel. Remove the Torx screws securing the lower cover (typically 2-3 screws at the bottom edge). 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 fasteners securing the upper steering column cover. Remove the Torx screws (typically 2 screws at the top or sides). Carefully separate the upper cover from the lower half, noting any clips that may be present along the seam. Separate the upper cover from the lower half at the seam and remove it rearward off the steering column; the steering wheel does not need to be removed.
3. 3

   Locate turn signal switch assembly
   With both column covers removed, identify the turn signal switch assembly mounted to the left side of the steering column. The assembly is the turn signal (left-hand) multifunction switch; on this platform the wiper/washer controls may be a separate stalk/module — verify which controls are integrated before removal. Note the position of the wiring harness connector.
4. 4

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Locate the electrical harness connector at the base of the turn signal switch. Press the locking tab on the connector and pull firmly to disconnect. If the connector is difficult to access, trace the harness down the steering column to find the connection point. Some Viper models may have a secondary smaller connector for additional functions.
5. 5

   Remove turn signal switch mounting fasteners
   Locate the mounting screws securing the turn signal switch to the steering column bracket. Remove the switch retaining screw(s) securing the switch assembly to the column (count and Torx size per FSM — verify before removal, as some units use a single screw plus locating tabs). Keep these screws in a safe location as they are specific to this assembly.
6. 6

   Remove turn signal switch
   With the fasteners removed and harness disconnected, carefully pull the turn signal switch assembly away from the steering column. Guide the switch stalk out of its mounting position, being careful not to disturb the clockspring behind the steering wheel or any adjacent wiring.
7. 7

   Install new turn signal switch
   Position the new turn signal switch assembly into the mounting location on the steering column. Align the mounting holes with the bracket on the column. Ensure the switch stalk is properly oriented and moves freely through its full range of motion before securing.
8. 8

   Secure turn signal switch
   Install the switch mounting screw(s) and tighten to the FSM-specified torque (typically low, around 15-25 in-lb for plastic-mounted switches — verify spec). Do not overtighten as this can crack the plastic housing. Do not overtighten as this can crack the plastic housing. Verify the switch sits flush against the mounting bracket and does not have excessive play.
9. 9

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Connect the electrical harness connector to the turn signal switch, pressing firmly until the locking tab clicks into place. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is fully seated. If there is a secondary connector, reconnect it at this time.
10. 10

    Reinstall steering column covers
    Position the upper steering column cover over the steering wheel and align it with the lower mounting surface. Install the Torx screws for the upper cover. Position the lower cover beneath the column, ensuring all tabs and alignment points engage properly. Install the lower cover Torx screws and verify both covers fit flush with no gaps.

Reassembly

1. Reconnect battery negative terminal
2. Cycle ignition to ON position (do not start engine) and verify instrument cluster illuminates without warning lights related to turn signal system
3. Test turn signal switch operation in all positions before driving

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position and test left turn signal function - verify front and rear indicators flash
• Test right turn signal function - verify front and rear indicators flash
• Test hazard light function - verify all four corners flash simultaneously
• Verify turn signal cancel function works when steering wheel is returned to center
• Check that no airbag warning light remains illuminated on instrument cluster
• Verify all other multi-function switch operations (wipers, high beams) if integrated into the same assembly

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

Codes that commonly send this job to the bay — tap one for symptoms, causes, and diagnostic steps.

Chasing one of these codes and not sure which part is guilty? Ask a master mechanic about YOUR car →

More procedures for this vehicle