Ignition Switch

This procedure covers removal and replacement of the ignition switch assembly on a 2015-2020 Ford F-150 with 5.0L V8 engine, including steering column access and electrical disconnection.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Ignition switch assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Lower steering column cover retainer clips (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and apply parking brake
2. Ensure transmission is in Park position
3. Disconnect negative battery cable and wait minimum 2 minutes for airbag system to discharge
4. Adjust steering wheel to lowest position and tilt to fully forward position for maximum access
5. Ensure ignition key is removed from cylinder

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower steering column covers
   Locate the lower steering column shroud beneath the steering wheel. Remove the two Torx T20 screws securing the lower cover. Gently pull the lower cover downward and away from the column, releasing any retaining clips. Set aside the lower cover and screws.
2. 2

   Remove upper steering column cover
   With the lower cover removed, locate the upper steering column cover retaining screws. Remove the two Torx T20 screws securing the upper cover. Carefully lift the upper cover upward and away from the steering column, ensuring no wiring harnesses are caught. Set aside.
3. 3

   Locate ignition switch assembly
   Identify the ignition switch on the right side of the steering column, mounted directly behind the lock cylinder. The switch has a large multi-pin electrical connector attached. Note the orientation of the switch and connector for installation reference.
4. 4

   Disconnect ignition switch electrical connector
   Press the locking tab on the ignition switch electrical connector and carefully pull the connector straight back away from the switch. Do not twist or bend the connector. Inspect connector pins for corrosion or damage.
5. 5

   Remove ignition switch mounting screws
   Locate the two Phillips head mounting screws securing the ignition switch to the steering column lock housing. Using appropriate screwdriver, remove both screws completely. Keep screws organized for reinstallation.
   Torque spec

   Switch Mounting Screws5 Nm (4 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Remove ignition switch from column
   Gently pull the ignition switch assembly away from the lock cylinder housing. The switch actuator rod will disengage from the lock cylinder. Note the position and orientation of the actuator rod engagement for proper installation of the new switch.
7. 7

   Inspect lock cylinder actuator
   With the switch removed, inspect the lock cylinder actuator rod for wear, damage, or misalignment. The actuator should move freely when the key is turned in the cylinder. Clean any debris from the actuator area with electrical contact cleaner if needed.
8. 8

   Install new ignition switch
   Position the new ignition switch adjacent to the lock cylinder housing. Align the switch actuator receptacle with the lock cylinder actuator rod. Gently push the switch onto the housing, ensuring the actuator rod fully engages with the switch mechanism. Verify the switch sits flush against the mounting surface.
   Torque spec

   Switch Mounting Screws5 Nm (4 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Install ignition switch mounting screws
   Insert both mounting screws through the switch and into the lock cylinder housing. Hand-tighten both screws first, then torque to specification using a torque wrench. Ensure the switch does not shift during tightening.
   Torque spec

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

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

    Reinstall steering column covers
    Position the upper steering column cover over the column, aligning all mounting points. Install the two retaining screws and torque to specification. Position the lower cover beneath the column, engaging all retaining clips, then install the two retaining screws and torque to specification.
12. 12

    Reconnect battery and initialize system
    Reconnect the negative battery cable. Insert the ignition key and verify the switch operates smoothly through all positions: LOCK, ACC, ON, and START. The steering wheel should remain locked in LOCK position and unlock when key is turned to ACC.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all steering column covers are properly seated with no gaps or misalignment
2. Verify all retaining screws are torqued to specification and covers are secure
3. Confirm ignition key operates smoothly through all positions without binding

Verification

• Turn ignition key to ACC position - accessories should power on, steering wheel should unlock
• Turn key to ON position - instrument cluster should illuminate, all warning lights should function normally
• With brake pedal depressed, turn key to START position - engine should crank and start normally
• Return key to LOCK position - key should be removable and steering wheel should lock when turned
• Test all ignition positions multiple times to ensure consistent operation
• Verify no warning lights related to ignition system remain illuminated on instrument cluster

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