Turn Signal Switch

This procedure replaces the turn signal switch (combination switch) assembly on the steering column of a 2016-2021 Honda Civic with 1.5L turbo engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Turn signal switch assembly (combination switch) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn steering wheel to center position and note alignment
3. Remove ignition key from vehicle
4. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait minimum 3 minutes
5. Protect steering column and dashboard trim with shop towels to prevent scratches

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower steering column covers
   Locate the two cover screws on the underside of the lower steering column cover. Remove these screws, then carefully separate the lower cover from the upper cover by releasing the retaining clips. Pull the lower cover away from the column.
   Torque spec

   Steering Column Covers2 Nm (1.5 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Remove upper steering column cover
   With the lower cover removed, locate and remove the screws securing the upper steering column cover. Gently pull the upper cover upward and away from the steering column, being careful not to damage the cable reel or wiring harnesses underneath.
   Torque spec

   Steering Column Covers2 Nm (1.5 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Disconnect turn signal switch electrical connectors
   Locate the electrical connectors for the turn signal/combination switch. Press the locking tabs on each connector and carefully pull them straight out from the switch assembly. There are typically two connectors: one for turn signals/wipers and one for other functions. Note connector positions for reassembly.
4. 4

   Remove switch mounting screws
   Locate the two switch mounting screws that secure the combination switch assembly to the steering column bracket. These are typically located on the left side of the column. Remove both screws completely using a Phillips screwdriver.
   Torque spec

   Switch Mounting Screws3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Remove turn signal switch assembly
   With mounting screws removed, carefully slide the combination switch assembly away from the steering column. Guide the switch body and stalks away from the column while ensuring no wiring is snagged or stressed. Remove the old switch completely from the vehicle.
6. 6

   Install new turn signal switch assembly
   Position the new combination switch assembly onto the steering column bracket, aligning the mounting holes. Route any wiring carefully to avoid pinching. Slide the switch into position until it seats flush against the column bracket.
7. 7

   Install and torque switch mounting screws
   Insert both switch mounting screws and hand-tighten. Using a torque wrench, tighten the screws to specification in a cross-pattern to ensure even seating of the switch assembly.
   Torque spec

   Switch Mounting Screws3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Reconnect electrical connectors
   Connect the electrical connectors to the new combination switch assembly, ensuring each connector clicks firmly into place. Verify the locking tabs are fully engaged. Gently tug on each connector to confirm secure connection.
9. 9

   Reinstall upper steering column cover
   Position the upper steering column cover over the steering column, ensuring all wiring is properly routed and not pinched. Align the cover with the mounting points and install the retaining screws. Torque screws to specification.
   Torque spec

   Steering Column Covers2 Nm (1.5 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reinstall lower steering column cover
    Align the lower steering column cover with the upper cover and engage all retaining clips. Ensure the cover sits flush and all clips are properly seated. Install the cover screws and torque to specification.
    Torque spec

    Steering Column Covers2 Nm (1.5 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reconnect battery and initialize systems
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Turn the ignition to ON position (do not start engine). Verify no warning lights appear on the instrument cluster related to the steering column or combination switch. If power window auto-up/down was lost, reinitialize by fully lowering then fully raising each window and holding the switch up for 2 seconds.

Reassembly

1. Verify all steering column covers are properly seated with no gaps
2. Ensure no wiring is visible or pinched between cover sections
3. Confirm turn signal stalks move freely through full range of motion
4. Check that steering wheel can turn fully lock-to-lock without interference

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON and verify all indicator lights in cluster function properly
• Test turn signals in both left and right positions, verify front and rear indicators flash
• Test hazard lights and verify all four corners flash simultaneously
• Test windshield wiper switch in all positions (off, intermittent, low, high) and verify operation
• Test windshield washer function and verify spray and wiper activation
• If equipped, test high beam headlight switch and verify operation
• Test lane change function (slight tap) on turn signal stalk and verify three-blink operation
• Verify cruise control buttons function properly if integrated into switch assembly
• Start vehicle and retest all functions with engine running to confirm proper operation

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