2021 HONDA ACCORD

1.5L I4 TurboFWDCVTgasturbo
3 active safety recalls on this vehicle — view recalls
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electrical

Combination Switch

for 2021 Honda Accord 1.5L I4 Turbo · FWD
Difficulty
Moderate
Time
2.0 h
Tools
6
Steps
10

Replace the combination switch (turn signal, wiper, and headlight control assembly) on the steering column of a 2018-2024 Honda Accord with 1.5L Turbo engine.

Warnings

⚠️Disconnect the battery negative terminal and wait at least 3 minutes before starting work to allow the SRS (airbag) system to discharge. Accidental airbag deployment can cause serious injury.
Do not rotate the steering wheel with the combination switch or steering column disconnected. This can damage the clock spring and cause airbag/horn malfunction.
Mark the steering wheel center position before removal to ensure proper clock spring alignment during reassembly.
ℹ️This procedure requires working with the SRS system. If you are not comfortable with airbag system service, consult a professional technician.

Tools required

10mm socket and ratchetEssential
Phillips screwdriverEssential
Trim removal tool set
Flathead screwdriver (small)
Torque wrench (5-15 Nm range)Essential
T30 Torx bit

Parts

  • Combination switch assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

  1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
  2. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key
  3. Turn steering wheel to center (straight ahead) position
  4. Mark the steering wheel top center position with tape for reference
  5. Disconnect the negative battery terminal and wait at least 3 minutes
  6. Ensure front wheels are pointing straight ahead

Procedure

  1. 1
    Remove lower steering column covers
    Remove the Phillips screws securing the lower steering column cover (typically 2-3 screws on the underside). Gently pull the lower cover down and away from the column. Then remove the upper steering column cover by releasing the clips and lifting upward.
  2. 2
    Disconnect combination switch electrical connectors
    Locate the combination switch electrical connectors on the left side of the steering column. Press the locking tabs and disconnect all electrical connectors from the combination switch assembly. There are typically 2-3 connectors depending on equipment level (turn signal/wiper, lights, cruise control).
  3. 3
    Remove combination switch mounting screws
    Locate the two mounting screws securing the combination switch assembly to the steering column (one on top, one on bottom of the column housing). Remove both screws completely using a Phillips screwdriver or appropriate bit.
    Torque spec
    Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
  4. 4
    Remove combination switch assembly
    Carefully slide the combination switch assembly away from the steering column. The switch assembly should pull straight off the column shaft. Be careful not to damage the clock spring or any wiring harness during removal. Keep track of any spacers or alignment features.
  5. 5
    Inspect clock spring and column components
    With the combination switch removed, visually inspect the clock spring (yellow tape with centered alignment marks), steering column shaft splines, and wiring harness for any damage, wear, or contamination. Verify the clock spring is still centered (alignment marks should be visible and aligned). Do not rotate the steering column shaft.
    If the clock spring is not centered or alignment marks are not visible, the clock spring may need to be replaced or recentered before proceeding.
  6. 6
    Install new combination switch assembly
    Align the new combination switch assembly with the steering column shaft and splines. Ensure any locating pins or tabs are properly aligned with the column housing. Slide the switch assembly onto the column until it seats fully against the column housing.
  7. 7
    Install combination switch mounting screws
    Install the two mounting screws (top and bottom) through the combination switch into the steering column housing. Hand-tighten first to ensure proper alignment, then torque screws to specification using a torque wrench.
    Torque spec
    Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
  8. 8
    Reconnect electrical connectors
    Reconnect all electrical connectors to the combination switch assembly. Ensure each connector clicks securely into place and locking tabs are fully engaged. Route wiring harness properly to avoid pinch points when covers are reinstalled.
  9. 9
    Reinstall steering column covers
    Position the upper steering column cover over the column and press down to engage the clips. Then install the lower steering column cover, ensuring all tabs align properly. Install and tighten the lower cover Phillips screws to specification.
    Torque spec
    Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
  10. 10
    Reconnect battery and initialize systems
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal and torque the terminal bolt to specification. Turn the ignition to ON position (do not start engine) and verify the combination switch indicator lights illuminate properly on the instrument cluster.
    Torque spec
    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

  1. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated with locking tabs engaged
  2. Verify steering column covers are properly secured and do not interfere with switch operation
  3. Confirm steering wheel remains in the centered position established during preparation

Verification

  • Turn ignition to ON position and test all combination switch functions: turn signals (left/right), hazard lights, windshield wipers (intermittent, low, high), windshield washer, high beam/low beam headlight switch, and headlight flash
  • Verify turn signal indicators and wiper status display correctly on the instrument cluster
  • Start the engine and confirm all functions work properly under running conditions
  • Check that the SRS (airbag) warning light operates normally (illuminates briefly at startup, then turns off)
  • Test cruise control functions if equipped
  • Verify steering wheel can turn lock-to-lock without binding or interference from the combination switch
  • Confirm no warning lights related to SRS, lighting, or body control systems appear on the instrument cluster

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