2018 FORD F-150

3.5L V6 EcoBoostRWDAUTOMATICgasturbo
17 active safety recalls on this vehicle — view recalls
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electrical

Combination Switch

for 2018 Ford F-150 3.5L V6 EcoBoost · RWD
Difficulty
Moderate
Time
2.4 h
Tools
8
Steps
11

This procedure replaces the combination switch (turn signal/wiper/cruise control stalk assembly) on the steering column of a 2015-2020 Ford F-150 with the 3.5L EcoBoost engine.

Warnings

⚠️Always disconnect the negative battery terminal and wait at least 2 minutes before working on steering column components to allow airbag system capacitors to discharge.
Improper handling of steering column components can damage the clockspring and cause airbag malfunction. Do not rotate the steering wheel with the clockspring disconnected.
Ensure ignition is OFF and key is removed before beginning work to prevent inadvertent system activation.

Tools required

T20 Torx driverEssential
T30 Torx driverEssential
Panel removal tool setEssential
10mm socketEssential
Ratchet and extensionEssential
Torque wrench (5-40 Nm range)Essential
Flathead screwdriver (trim removal)
Flashlight or work light

Parts

  • Combination switch assembly × 1 — Use OEM Ford specification

Preparation

  1. Park vehicle on level ground and set parking brake
  2. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key
  3. Ensure front wheels are pointed straight ahead and steering wheel is centered
  4. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait minimum 2 minutes for airbag system discharge
  5. Lower steering column to lowest position and extend fully outward for access

Procedure

  1. 1
    Disconnect battery
    Disconnect the negative battery terminal using a 10mm socket. Tighten the terminal away from the battery post to prevent accidental contact. Wait at least 2 minutes before proceeding to allow the supplemental restraint system (airbag) to fully discharge.
    Torque spec
    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
  2. 2
    Remove lower steering column covers
    Use a T20 Torx driver to remove the two screws securing the lower steering column cover. Carefully pull the lower cover away from the column, releasing any retaining clips. Set aside. The upper cover will remain in place for now.
    Torque spec
    Cover Screws12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
  3. 3
    Remove upper steering column covers
    Remove the two T20 Torx screws securing the upper steering column cover. Separate the upper cover from the lower portion, being careful not to damage the tilt/telescope release lever. Set the upper cover aside.
    Torque spec
    Cover Screws12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
  4. 4
    Disconnect combination switch electrical connectors
    Locate the two electrical connectors on the back of the combination switch assembly. Press the release tabs and pull each connector straight back to disconnect. Label connectors if necessary to ensure correct reassembly. Note the routing of the wiring harness for reinstallation.
    Do not pull on wires; press connector release tabs firmly and pull connector body only.
  5. 5
    Remove combination switch mounting bolts
    Using a T30 Torx driver, remove the two bolts securing the combination switch assembly to the steering column. These bolts are located on either side of the switch housing. Support the switch assembly as you remove the second bolt to prevent it from falling.
    Torque spec
    Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
  6. 6
    Remove combination switch assembly
    Carefully slide the combination switch assembly off the steering column shaft. The switch will slide rearward and away from the column. Keep the assembly level to avoid binding on the column shaft. Inspect the mounting surfaces for any damage or debris before installing the new switch.
    ℹ️If the switch binds during removal, check that all mounting bolts have been removed and that no wiring is caught.
  7. 7
    Install new combination switch
    Position the new combination switch assembly onto the steering column shaft, aligning the mounting holes. Slide the switch forward onto the column until it seats fully against the mounting surface. Ensure the switch is properly oriented with the turn signal stalk on the left side.
    Verify that the steering wheel has not been rotated from center position before installing the new switch to prevent clockspring damage.
  8. 8
    Install combination switch mounting bolts
    Install the two T30 Torx mounting bolts finger-tight, ensuring the switch is properly seated. Torque both bolts to specification using a torque wrench. Verify the switch housing is flush against the steering column and there are no gaps.
    Torque spec
    Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
  9. 9
    Reconnect electrical connectors
    Connect the two electrical connectors to the combination switch assembly, ensuring each connector clicks into place fully. Route the wiring harness as noted during removal, ensuring no wires are pinched or stressed. Gently tug on each connector to verify it is fully seated.
    Ensure connectors are fully seated with audible click to prevent intermittent electrical issues.
  10. 10
    Reinstall steering column covers
    Position the upper steering column cover onto the column, ensuring all tabs align with their slots. Install the two T20 Torx screws and torque to specification. Install the lower cover, aligning all retaining clips, then install its two T20 Torx screws to specification. Verify all covers fit flush with no gaps.
    Torque spec
    Cover Screws12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
  11. 11
    Reconnect battery
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal and torque the terminal bolt to specification using a 10mm socket and torque wrench. Ensure the terminal is clean and makes good contact with the battery post.
    Torque spec
    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

  1. Ensure all steering column covers are properly seated and all retaining clips are engaged
  2. Verify no wiring is pinched between covers or other components
  3. Return steering column to desired driving position

Verification

  • Turn ignition to ON position (engine off) and verify instrument cluster illuminates normally
  • Test turn signal operation in both left and right positions, verify correct indicators flash
  • Test windshield wiper operation in all switch positions (intermittent, low, high, mist)
  • Test windshield washer function
  • Test cruise control set, resume, cancel, and coast functions (may require road test)
  • Test high beam and headlight flash functions
  • Verify all steering column covers are secure with no rattles
  • Scan for diagnostic trouble codes and verify no airbag or electrical system faults are present

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