This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the wiper switch (combination switch) on the steering column of a 2018-2024 Honda Accord with 1.5L turbo engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Wiper/washer combination switch × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Ensure ignition is OFF and key/fob is removed from vehicle
3. Position front wheels straight ahead before beginning work
4. Allow engine to cool completely if recently driven

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect battery negative terminal
   Open the hood and locate the battery in the engine compartment. Using a 10mm socket, loosen the negative battery terminal bolt and remove the cable from the battery post. Secure the cable away from the terminal. Wait a minimum of 3 minutes before proceeding to allow the SRS system to fully discharge.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove steering column lower cover
   Locate the two Phillips screws on the underside of the lower steering column cover. Remove both screws and carefully pull the lower cover down and away from the column. Set the cover aside in a safe location.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Remove steering column upper cover
   With the lower cover removed, locate the upper cover mounting points. Gently pull the upper cover upward to disengage the retaining clips. Work carefully around the perimeter to avoid breaking clips. Remove the upper cover and set aside.
4. 4

   Disconnect combination switch connector
   Locate the electrical connector on the rear of the combination switch assembly. Press the locking tab on the connector and carefully pull the connector straight back to disconnect it from the switch. Do not pull on the wires themselves.
5. 5

   Remove combination switch mounting screws
   Identify the two mounting screws securing the combination switch assembly to the steering column bracket. These are typically located on the left side of the column. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove both screws completely.
6. 6

   Remove combination switch assembly
   With mounting screws removed, carefully slide the combination switch assembly (which includes both wiper and turn signal switches) away from the steering column. Guide the wiring harness through as you remove the assembly. Inspect the clock spring through the opening to ensure it remains centered.
7. 7

   Install new combination switch assembly
   Position the new combination switch assembly onto the steering column, ensuring the wiring harness routes properly and does not pinch. Align the mounting holes with the column bracket. Verify the switch operates smoothly before securing.
8. 8

   Install mounting screws
   Insert both mounting screws and hand-tighten them to secure the combination switch to the column bracket. Ensure the switch is properly seated before final tightening. Tighten screws evenly in a cross pattern.
9. 9

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Align the electrical connector with the combination switch terminals and push firmly until you hear and feel the locking tab click into place. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is fully seated.
10. 10

    Reinstall steering column covers
    Position the upper steering column cover over the column, ensuring all clips align properly. Press firmly to engage the retaining clips. Install the lower cover and secure with the two Phillips screws, torquing to specification.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reconnect battery negative terminal
    Return to the engine compartment and reconnect the negative battery cable to the battery post. Torque the battery terminal bolt to specification, being careful not to overtighten and damage the terminal.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all steering column covers are fully seated with no gaps
2. Verify all electrical connectors are properly locked in place
3. Check that no tools or parts were left in the steering column area

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position (engine off) and verify the instrument cluster illuminates normally with no SRS warning light staying on
• Test wiper switch in all positions: OFF, INT (with speed adjustment), LO, HI, and MIST
• Test washer function by pulling the wiper stalk toward you
• Verify turn signal and hazard functions still operate correctly
• Confirm steering wheel turns freely without binding or unusual noises
• Check that SRS warning light follows normal startup sequence (illuminates briefly then goes off)

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