electrical
Wiper Switch
for 2016 Ford F-150 5.0L V8 Coyote · RWD
Difficulty
Moderate
Time
1.3 h
Tools
7
Steps
11
This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the wiper/turn signal multifunction switch on the steering column of a 2015-2020 Ford F-150 with the 5.0L Coyote V8 engine.
Warnings
⚠Disconnecting the battery will erase radio presets and may require steering angle sensor recalibration
⚠Do not rotate the steering wheel with the airbag clockspring disconnected to avoid damaging the clockspring
ℹ️Mark the steering wheel position before disassembly to maintain proper alignment
Tools required
10mm socket and ratchetEssential
Trim panel removal toolsEssential
Torx T20 bitEssential
Torx T30 bitEssential
Small flathead screwdriver
Torque wrench (5-20 Nm range)Essential
Magnetic parts tray
Parts
- Wiper/turn signal multifunction switch × 1 — Use OEM Ford specification
Preparation
- Park vehicle on level ground and set parking brake
- Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key
- Turn front wheels to straight-ahead position
- Wait at least 1 minute after disconnecting battery before working on airbag system components
Procedure
- 1Disconnect batteryOpen hood and disconnect the negative battery terminal using a 10mm socket. Secure the cable away from the battery post to prevent accidental reconnection. Wait at least 1 minute for airbag system capacitors to discharge.Torque specBattery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
- 2Remove lower steering column coversUsing a trim panel tool, carefully pry the lower steering column cover tabs to release them. There are typically 4-5 clips securing the lower cover. Remove the lower cover by pulling it down and away from the column. Set aside in a safe location.
- 3Remove upper steering column coverLocate the upper steering column cover retaining screws (typically two T20 Torx screws at the bottom of the upper cover). Remove these screws, then release the clips at the top of the cover and remove the upper cover. Note the routing of any wiring harnesses.Torque specCover Screws14 Nm (10 lb-ft)
- 4Disconnect wiper switch electrical connectorsLocate the two electrical connectors on the back of the multifunction switch assembly. Press the locking tabs on each connector and carefully pull them straight back to disconnect. The larger connector is typically gray or black, the smaller connector may be for the turn signal function. Note their orientation for reinstallation.
- 5Remove multifunction switch mounting screwsLocate the two T30 Torx screws securing the multifunction switch to the steering column housing. These are typically positioned on the left side of the column. Remove both screws completely and place in a magnetic tray.
- 6Remove multifunction switch assemblyGrasp the multifunction switch lever and carefully pull the entire switch assembly straight out away from the steering column. The switch may require slight wiggling to clear the mounting bracket. Remove the assembly completely from the vehicle.
- 7Install new multifunction switchPosition the new multifunction switch assembly over the steering column mounting bracket, ensuring the switch shaft aligns with the column mechanism. Slide the switch into place until it seats flush against the mounting surface. Verify proper alignment before installing screws.
- 8Install mounting screwsInstall the two T30 Torx mounting screws finger-tight first to ensure proper thread engagement. Once both screws are started, torque them to specification in a cross-pattern to ensure even pressure on the switch housing.Torque specModule Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
- 9Reconnect electrical connectorsReconnect both electrical connectors to the new multifunction switch, ensuring they click firmly into place. Verify the locking tabs are fully engaged by gently pulling on each connector. Match the connectors to their proper locations based on size and keying.
- 10Reinstall steering column coversPosition the upper steering column cover over the column, ensuring all wiring is properly routed and not pinched. Align the mounting screw holes and install the T20 Torx screws to specification. Snap the upper cover clips into place. Position the lower cover and press firmly until all clips engage.Torque specCover Screws14 Nm (10 lb-ft)
- 11Reconnect batteryReconnect the negative battery terminal and torque the terminal bolt to specification. Ensure the cable is fully seated on the battery post before tightening.⚠Do not overtighten battery terminal to avoid damaging the terminal postTorque specBattery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
Reassembly
- Ensure all steering column cover clips are fully engaged and covers are secure
- Verify no wiring is pinched between column covers
- Check that multifunction switch lever operates smoothly through full range of motion
Verification
- Turn ignition to ON position without starting engine
- Test wiper switch in all positions: intermittent, low, high, and mist
- Test washer function by pulling wiper lever toward steering wheel
- Test turn signal function in both left and right positions
- Verify high beam and flash-to-pass functions operate correctly
- Check that turn signal self-canceling feature works after turning steering wheel
- Start engine and verify all wiper speeds function properly under load
- Check for any illuminated warning lights on instrument cluster related to multifunction switch
- If equipped, verify steering angle sensor does not require recalibration (no ABS or stability control warnings)