Replace the combination switch (turn signal/wiper stalk assembly) on the steering column of a 2016-2021 Honda Civic 1.5L Turbo.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Combination switch assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground with front wheels pointed straight ahead
2. Turn ignition to OFF and remove key
3. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait minimum 3 minutes for airbag system capacitor discharge
4. Ensure steering wheel is locked in straight-ahead position

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower steering column covers
   Locate the lower steering column cover beneath the steering wheel. Remove the two Phillips screws securing the lower cover. Gently pull the lower cover away from the column and set aside.
2. 2

   Remove upper steering column cover
   Remove the two Phillips screws securing the upper steering column cover. Carefully separate the upper cover from the column, working around the combination switch stalks. You may need to angle the cover to clear the switch assemblies. Set the upper cover aside.
3. 3

   Disconnect combination switch electrical connectors
   Locate the two electrical connectors for the combination switch on the left side of the steering column. Press the locking tabs and disconnect both connectors (one for turn signals/hazards, one for wipers/washers). Note the routing of the wire harness for reinstallation.
4. 4

   Remove combination switch mounting screws
   Locate the two Phillips screws securing the combination switch assembly to the steering column bracket. These screws are typically located on the underside of the switch housing. Remove both screws completely using a Phillips screwdriver. A stubby screwdriver may provide better access.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Remove combination switch assembly
   With mounting screws removed, carefully slide the combination switch assembly away from the steering column. The assembly should separate as one complete unit containing both the turn signal stalk and wiper stalk. Inspect the mounting bracket and column for any damage or debris.
6. 6

   Install new combination switch assembly
   Position the new combination switch assembly onto the steering column bracket, ensuring proper alignment with the mounting holes. Verify that the switch stalks operate smoothly and do not bind against any column components before securing.
7. 7

   Secure combination switch mounting screws
   Install the two Phillips mounting screws through the combination switch assembly into the steering column bracket. Hand-tighten first to ensure proper thread engagement, then torque to specification using a torque wrench.
   Torque spec

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

   Reconnect electrical connectors
   Connect both electrical connectors to the combination switch, ensuring each connector locks into place with an audible click. Route the wire harness as noted during removal to prevent pinching when reinstalling covers. Gently tug on each connector to verify secure connection.
9. 9

   Reinstall upper steering column cover
   Position the upper steering column cover over the column, carefully working it around the combination switch stalks. Align the cover halves and install the two Phillips screws. Do not overtighten plastic cover screws.
10. 10

    Reinstall lower steering column cover
    Position the lower steering column cover and align it with the upper cover. Install the two Phillips screws to secure the lower cover. Verify all cover edges are properly seated and aligned.
11. 11

    Reconnect battery and initialize systems
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal and torque the terminal bolt to specification. Do not overtighten to prevent damage to the battery post.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
2. Verify steering column covers are properly aligned with no gaps
3. Confirm combination switch stalks move freely without binding

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position and verify no airbag warning light stays illuminated
• Test turn signal function in both left and right positions, verify indicator lights and exterior lights work
• Test hazard light function, verify all four corners flash
• Test wiper switch in all positions (mist, intermittent, low, high)
• Test washer function and verify wipers activate with washer spray
• Test high beam switch and verify headlight high beam operation
• Verify all combination switch functions return to center or off position properly

More procedures for this vehicle