This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the combination switch (multifunction switch) on the steering column, which controls turn signals, headlights, wipers, and cruise control functions.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Combination switch assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Steering column cover clips (if damaged) × 4 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake
2. Turn the steering wheel to the straight-ahead position and lock the steering column
3. Turn the ignition off and remove the key from the ignition switch
4. Open the hood and locate the battery in the engine compartment
5. Allow the vehicle electrical system to power down for at least 2 minutes after battery disconnect to deplete capacitors

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect the battery
   Using a 10mm socket, loosen the negative battery terminal bolt. Remove the negative cable from the battery terminal and secure it away from the battery post to prevent accidental reconnection. Wait at least 2 minutes before proceeding to allow the airbag system to fully discharge.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove the lower steering column cover
   Locate the lower steering column cover beneath the steering wheel. Using a T20 Torx driver, remove the two cover screws at the bottom of the lower cover. Carefully pull the lower cover away from the column, releasing any retention clips. Set the cover aside.
3. 3

   Remove the upper steering column cover
   With the lower cover removed, locate the upper steering column cover attachment points. Using a T20 Torx driver, remove the two screws securing the upper cover. Gently separate the upper cover from the steering column, being careful not to damage the retention clips. Remove the upper cover completely and set it aside with the lower cover.
   Torque spec

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

   Access the combination switch connectors
   With both column covers removed, locate the combination switch assembly mounted to the left side of the steering column. Identify the two main electrical connectors attached to the rear of the combination switch. Trace the wiring harnesses to ensure adequate access for disconnection.
5. 5

   Disconnect the primary electrical connector
   Locate the larger primary electrical connector on the combination switch. Press the locking tab on the connector while gently pulling the connector away from the switch housing. Do not pull on the wires themselves. If the connector is difficult to remove, use a small flathead screwdriver to carefully release the secondary lock if equipped.
6. 6

   Disconnect the secondary electrical connector
   Locate the secondary electrical connector on the combination switch (typically for wiper or cruise control functions). Depress the connector locking tab and pull the connector straight back from the switch assembly. Inspect both connectors for any signs of corrosion or damage to the pins.
7. 7

   Remove the combination switch mounting fasteners
   Using a T30 Torx driver, locate and remove the two mounting screws that secure the combination switch assembly to the steering column bracket. These screws are typically located on the left side of the steering column. Keep these screws in a safe location as they will be reused during installation.
8. 8

   Remove the combination switch assembly
   With all fasteners and electrical connectors removed, carefully slide the combination switch assembly away from the steering column. The switch may have a tab that slides into a groove on the column bracket, so pull the switch straight out while applying slight upward pressure. Remove the switch completely from the vehicle.
9. 9

   Prepare and install the new combination switch
   Remove the new combination switch from its packaging. Compare it to the old switch to verify it is the correct replacement. If applicable, clean the mounting surface on the steering column bracket with electrical contact cleaner. Align the new combination switch with the mounting bracket on the steering column, ensuring any locating tabs engage properly. Slide the switch into position until it seats fully against the column bracket.
10. 10

    Install the combination switch mounting fasteners
    Using a T30 Torx driver, install the two mounting screws that secure the combination switch to the steering column bracket. Hand-tighten the screws initially to ensure proper alignment, then tighten them securely. Do not overtighten as the screws thread into plastic or composite material.
11. 11

    Reconnect the electrical connectors
    Reconnect the secondary electrical connector first by aligning the connector with its socket on the combination switch and pushing firmly until you hear or feel a click. Then reconnect the primary electrical connector in the same manner. Ensure both locking tabs are fully engaged. Gently tug on each connector to verify it is securely locked in place.
12. 12

    Reinstall the steering column covers
    Position the upper steering column cover over the steering column, aligning the screw holes and ensuring any retention clips engage properly. Install the cover screws and torque to specification using a T20 Torx driver. Position the lower steering column cover and align it with the upper cover. Install the lower cover screws and torque to specification. Verify that both covers are seated properly with no gaps.
    Torque spec

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

    Reconnect the battery
    Reinstall the negative battery cable to the negative battery terminal. Using a 10mm socket and torque wrench, tighten the battery terminal bolt to 6.0 Nm (4.0 lb-ft). Do not overtighten the terminal bolt as this can damage the battery post or terminal.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all steering column covers are properly seated and all fasteners are torqued to specification
2. Verify that no electrical connectors are left disconnected and that all wiring is routed properly without pinch points
3. Check that the steering wheel is still in the straight-ahead position and the column lock functions properly

Verification

• Turn the ignition to the ON position (engine off) and verify the instrument cluster illuminates without warning lights related to the combination switch
• Test all combination switch functions: turn signals (left and right), hazard lights, headlight switch (off, parking, headlights, high beam), wiper functions (off, intermittent, low, high, washer), and cruise control buttons if equipped
• Start the engine and verify all switch functions operate correctly under running conditions
• Verify the turn signal self-cancel function works by turning the steering wheel through a turn
• Check for any abnormal sounds or resistance when operating the combination switch functions
• If equipped with adaptive cruise control or lane keeping assist, verify these systems function properly and no warning messages appear
• Reset the clock and radio presets if necessary, and recalibrate power window auto-up/down features by fully opening and closing each window

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