This procedure covers removal and replacement of the windshield wiper switch assembly located in the steering column of a 2011-2014 Ford F-150 with 3.5L EcoBoost engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Wiper/washer switch assembly × 1 — Use OEM Ford multifunction switch

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and set parking brake
2. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key
3. Allow at least 5 minutes after disconnecting battery before working near airbag components
4. Ensure steering wheel is in straight-ahead position

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect Battery
   Open hood and locate battery in engine compartment. Using a 10mm socket, loosen and remove the negative battery terminal. Secure the cable away from the terminal to prevent accidental reconnection. Wait at least 5 minutes to allow airbag system capacitors to discharge.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove Lower Steering Column Cover
   From inside the vehicle, locate the lower steering column shroud beneath the steering wheel. Remove the T20 Torx screws securing the lower cover (typically 2-3 screws on underside). Gently pull the lower cover downward and away from the column, releasing the retaining clips at the rear. Set cover aside.
3. 3

   Remove Upper Steering Column Cover
   With lower cover removed, locate the T20 Torx screws on the upper steering column shroud. Remove these screws (typically 2 screws). Carefully separate the upper cover by lifting upward and back, being mindful of clip locations at the front near the instrument cluster. Remove upper cover completely.
4. 4

   Access Multifunction Switch
   With steering column covers removed, identify the wiper switch assembly on the right side of the steering column (when seated in driver position). The switch is part of the multifunction switch assembly that also controls turn signals. Note the routing of the wiring harness.
5. 5

   Disconnect Switch Electrical Connector
   Locate the electrical connector at the base of the multifunction switch. Depress the locking tab on the connector and carefully pull the connector straight back to disconnect. You may need to use a small flathead screwdriver to release the lock. Do not pull on wires.
   ⚠Connector locks are fragile; ensure lock is fully released before pulling to avoid breaking tabs.
6. 6

   Remove Switch Mounting Screws
   Locate the two T20 Torx screws securing the multifunction switch assembly to the steering column mounting bracket. Remove both screws completely and retain for reinstallation. Note that these are specific length screws for this application.
7. 7

   Remove Wiper Switch Assembly
   With mounting screws removed, carefully slide the multifunction switch assembly away from the steering column. The assembly may require a slight twisting motion while pulling to clear any alignment pins. Remove the assembly completely from the vehicle and set aside if reusing any components.
8. 8

   Install New Wiper Switch
   Position the new wiper switch assembly near the steering column mounting location. Align the switch with the mounting bracket and any locating pins on the column. Slide the assembly into position until it seats flush against the column bracket. Verify proper alignment before proceeding.
9. 9

   Install Mounting Screws
   Insert the two T20 Torx mounting screws through the switch assembly into the steering column bracket. Thread screws by hand first to ensure proper engagement. Tighten screws evenly using a torque wrench to the specified value for module mounting applications.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reconnect Electrical Connector
    Route the wiring harness to match the original path, ensuring no pinch points. Align the electrical connector with the socket on the multifunction switch and push firmly until you hear and feel the locking tab click into place. Verify connection is secure by gently tugging on the connector body (not wires).
11. 11

    Reinstall Upper Steering Column Cover
    Position the upper steering column cover over the column assembly. Ensure all wiring is routed properly and not pinched between cover and column. Align the front clips near the instrument cluster and press firmly to engage. Install the T20 Torx screws and tighten to specification.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Reinstall Lower Steering Column Cover
    Position the lower steering column cover beneath the column assembly. Engage the rear retaining clips first by pressing upward, then align the front portion. Install the T20 Torx screws on the underside of the cover and tighten to specification. Verify both covers fit properly with no gaps.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
13. 13

    Reconnect Battery
    Return to engine compartment and reconnect the negative battery terminal to the battery post. Ensure the terminal is fully seated on the post and tighten the terminal bolt to specification using a 10mm socket and torque wrench. Do not overtighten as this can damage the terminal or battery post.
    ⚠Battery terminal bolts are low torque specification and easily overtightened. Use torque wrench to prevent damage.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all steering column covers are properly seated with no gaps or misalignment
2. Verify no wiring is pinched or routed incorrectly around steering column
3. Check that all Torx screws are installed and properly torqued

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position without starting engine
• Test wiper switch in all positions: off, intermittent (all speeds), low speed, and high speed
• Verify washer function operates correctly when switch is activated
• Confirm wiper delay function operates as expected in intermittent mode
• Check that wipers return to proper park position when turned off
• Verify no warning lights remain illuminated on instrument cluster after completing a short drive cycle
• Ensure steering column covers are secure and do not rattle

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