This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the wiper/washer switch assembly located in the steering column of a 2015-2020 Ford F-150 with the 3.5L EcoBoost engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Wiper/Washer Switch Assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Steering column cover clips (if damaged) × 4 — Typically break during removal

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and set parking brake
2. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key
3. Ensure steering wheel is in straight-ahead position
4. Open driver's door to maintain interior access throughout procedure
5. Allow engine to cool if recently operated

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect Battery
   Open the hood and locate the battery in the engine compartment. Using a 10mm socket, loosen and remove the negative battery terminal. Secure the cable away from the battery post to prevent accidental reconnection. Wait at least 2 minutes for the airbag system to fully discharge before proceeding.
   ⚠️Always disconnect negative terminal first to prevent short circuits and airbag deployment.
   Torque spec

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

   Adjust Steering Column Position
   Manually adjust the tilt steering column to its lowest position and telescope the column to its fully extended position. This provides maximum clearance for removing the steering column covers. Lock the column adjustment lever if equipped.
3. 3

   Remove Lower Steering Column Cover
   Locate the lower steering column cover beneath the steering wheel. Using a T20 Torx driver, remove the two screws on the underside of the lower cover. Gently pull the lower cover away from the column, starting at the bottom edge. Disconnect any puddle lamp or courtesy light connectors if equipped, then set the cover aside.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Remove Upper Steering Column Cover
   With the lower cover removed, locate the upper steering column cover screws. Remove the two T20 Torx screws securing the upper cover. Carefully lift and separate the upper cover from the steering column, being mindful of any wiring harnesses that may be routed along the column. Set the upper cover aside with the hardware.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Identify Wiper Switch Assembly
   With both covers removed, locate the wiper/washer switch assembly on the right side of the steering column (passenger side). The switch is part of the multifunction switch module and is secured by a mounting bracket. Note the position of all electrical connectors and their routing before removal.
6. 6

   Disconnect Wiper Switch Electrical Connectors
   Locate the primary electrical connector on the back of the wiper switch assembly. Press the locking tab on the connector and carefully pull it straight back to disconnect. If the switch has multiple connectors, label them or take photos for correct reassembly. Some connectors may require pressing secondary locks before the primary tab can release.
   ⚠Do not pull on wires; always grip the connector body to prevent damage to the wiring harness.
7. 7

   Remove Switch Mounting Fasteners
   Using a T30 Torx driver, remove the mounting bolt securing the wiper switch bracket to the steering column. Some models use a combination of screws and clips. If equipped with module mounting bolts, use proper torque specifications during reassembly. Keep all hardware organized for reinstallation.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Remove Wiper Switch from Column
   With the fasteners removed, gently pull the wiper switch assembly away from the steering column. There may be alignment pins or guide slots that require the switch to be moved in a specific direction. Carefully maneuver the switch out of the column housing, ensuring no wiring is caught or pinched during removal. Inspect the mounting area for any damage or debris.
9. 9

   Install New Wiper Switch
   Position the new wiper switch assembly in the same orientation as the original. Align any guide pins or slots with the corresponding holes in the steering column housing. Ensure the switch is fully seated before installing fasteners. The switch should sit flush against the column mounting surface with no gaps.
   ℹ️Verify the switch lever is in the OFF position before installation to ensure proper alignment.
10. 10

    Secure Switch with Mounting Fasteners
    Install the mounting bolt through the switch bracket and into the steering column. Using a T30 Torx driver and torque wrench, tighten the module mounting bolt to specification. Do not overtighten as this can crack the plastic housing or strip the threads in the column.
    Torque spec

    Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reconnect Electrical Connectors
    Reconnect all electrical connectors to the wiper switch assembly in the reverse order of removal. Ensure each connector clicks firmly into place and the locking tabs are fully engaged. Verify that no wires are pinched between components and that all harness routing matches the original configuration. Gently tug on each connector to confirm it is secure.
12. 12

    Reinstall Steering Column Covers
    Position the upper steering column cover over the column, ensuring all wiring is properly routed inside the cover. Align the cover halves and install the T20 Torx screws, tightening to specification. Install the lower steering column cover, reconnect any courtesy light connectors, and secure with the T20 Torx screws. Ensure all clips are properly engaged and covers fit flush with no gaps.
    Torque spec

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

    Reconnect Battery
    Return to the engine compartment and reconnect the negative battery terminal. Position the cable on the battery post and tighten the 10mm terminal bolt to specification. Ensure the connection is secure but do not overtighten, as this can damage the battery terminal.
    ⚠Always reconnect negative terminal last to prevent short circuits.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Double-check that all steering column covers are properly secured with no loose panels
2. Verify all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
3. Ensure no tools or parts were left in the steering column area
4. Return steering column tilt and telescope adjustments to preferred driving position

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position (engine off) and test all wiper switch functions: intermittent, low speed, high speed, and mist
• Test washer fluid spray function by activating the washer switch
• Verify wiper speed settings match the selected positions on the switch
• Check that wipers return to park position when switched off
• Perform power window auto-up/down relearn if required: hold each window switch in auto-down position for 5 seconds, then auto-up for 5 seconds
• Verify no warning lights are illuminated on the instrument cluster related to the wiper system
• Test all wiper functions while driving at various speeds to ensure proper operation

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