This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the turn signal switch (multifunction switch) on the steering column of a 2015-2020 Ford F-150 with 3.5L EcoBoost engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Turn signal switch (multifunction switch) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and set parking brake
2. Turn ignition off and remove key from ignition
3. Ensure front wheels are in straight-ahead position and do not move steering wheel during procedure
4. Disconnect negative battery cable and wait 2 minutes for airbag system to discharge
5. Adjust steering column to lowest and fully forward position for easier access

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower steering column cover
   Locate the lower steering column cover beneath the steering wheel. Remove the retaining screws from the lower cover. There are typically 2-3 screws on the underside. Carefully pull the lower cover away from the column and set aside.
   Torque spec

   Steering Column Covers2 Nm (1.5 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Remove upper steering column cover
   With the lower cover removed, locate the upper steering column cover screws. Remove the retaining screws securing the upper cover. Gently lift and separate the upper cover from the steering column, being careful not to damage any wiring or trim clips. Set the upper cover aside.
   Torque spec

   Steering Column Covers2 Nm (1.5 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Disconnect turn signal switch electrical connector
   Locate the main electrical connector for the turn signal switch on the left side of the steering column. Press the connector locking tab and carefully pull the connector straight off the switch. If there are multiple connectors (for wiper/washer controls), disconnect all of them and note their positions for reassembly.
   ⚠Do not pull on wires; always disconnect by grasping the connector body to avoid damaging terminals.
4. 4

   Remove turn signal switch mounting screws
   Locate the two mounting screws that secure the turn signal switch assembly to the steering column. These are typically located on the left side of the column housing. Using a Phillips screwdriver or appropriate socket, remove both screws completely and retain them for reinstallation.
   Torque spec

   Switch Mounting Screws3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Remove turn signal switch assembly
   With mounting screws removed and electrical connectors disconnected, carefully pull the turn signal switch assembly away from the steering column. The switch may have a tab or alignment feature that requires slight rotation or angling to remove. Guide any wiring harness clear of the column as you remove the switch.
   ℹ️Take note of the switch orientation and how the wiring is routed for proper reinstallation.
6. 6

   Install new turn signal switch
   Position the new turn signal switch assembly on the steering column, ensuring proper alignment with the mounting holes and that any locating tabs are correctly seated. Route the wiring harness in the same path as the original switch. Start both mounting screws by hand to ensure proper threading before tightening.
   Torque spec

   Switch Mounting Screws3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Reconnect electrical connectors
   Reconnect all electrical connectors to the turn signal switch, ensuring each connector clicks fully into place and the locking tabs engage properly. Verify that each connector is matched to the correct port on the switch. Gently tug on each connector to confirm it is locked in position.
   ⚠Ensure connectors are fully seated to prevent intermittent electrical issues.
8. 8

   Reinstall upper steering column cover
   Position the upper steering column cover over the column, aligning all mounting points and ensuring no wires are pinched. Install the retaining screws and tighten to specification. Verify the cover is flush and properly seated before moving to the next step.
   Torque spec

   Steering Column Covers2 Nm (1.5 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Reinstall lower steering column cover
   Position the lower steering column cover beneath the steering column, ensuring it mates properly with the upper cover and all alignment tabs engage. Install the retaining screws and tighten to specification. Check that both covers fit together properly with no gaps.
   Torque spec

   Steering Column Covers2 Nm (1.5 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reconnect battery and initialize systems
    Reconnect the negative battery cable. Turn the ignition to the ON position without starting the engine. Cycle through all turn signal and multifunction switch positions to verify proper operation. Check that all indicator lights on the instrument cluster respond correctly.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all steering column covers are properly aligned and secured with no gaps
2. Verify all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
3. Confirm no wires are pinched between covers or other components

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position and verify instrument cluster illuminates normally
• Test left turn signal operation - verify front and rear signals flash and indicator light works
• Test right turn signal operation - verify front and rear signals flash and indicator light works
• Test hazard light function - verify all four corners flash simultaneously
• Test high beam operation and indicator light
• Test windshield wiper and washer functions at all speeds
• Verify cruise control buttons function if equipped
• Check that turn signals self-cancel when steering wheel returns to center
• Start engine and retest all functions with engine running

More procedures for this vehicle