This procedure covers removal and replacement of the windshield wiper switch assembly located in the steering column of the 2016-2021 Honda Civic with 1.5L turbo engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Wiper switch assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn steering wheel to straight-ahead position
3. Turn ignition off and remove key/fob from vehicle
4. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait minimum 3 minutes
5. Adjust steering column to lowest and most forward position for better access

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect battery negative terminal
   Using a 10mm socket, loosen the negative battery terminal bolt. Remove the negative cable from the battery post and secure it away from the terminal. Wait a minimum of 3 minutes to allow the airbag system to fully discharge.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove lower steering column cover
   Locate the two screws on the underside of the lower steering column cover. Remove these screws using a Phillips screwdriver. Gently pull the lower cover down and away from the column to release the retaining clips. Set the cover aside.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove upper steering column cover
   With the lower cover removed, locate the screws securing the upper steering column cover. Remove these screws and carefully separate the upper cover from the column assembly. Take care not to scratch the instrument panel trim during removal.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Locate wiper switch assembly
   The wiper switch is mounted on the left side of the steering column (driver's side). Identify the switch assembly and trace the electrical connector to locate its connection point on the column wiring harness.
5. 5

   Disconnect wiper switch electrical connector
   Press down on the locking tab of the electrical connector while gently pulling the connector away from the switch. If resistance is felt, double-check that the locking tab is fully depressed. Do not force the connector as the tabs are fragile.
   ⚠Apply pressure to the locking tab only, not the connector body, to avoid breaking the internal latch mechanism
6. 6

   Remove wiper switch mounting screws
   Locate the two mounting screws that secure the wiper switch to the steering column bracket. These are typically Phillips head screws. Remove both screws completely and retain them for reinstallation if the new switch does not include replacements.
7. 7

   Remove wiper switch from column
   With the mounting screws removed and connector disconnected, carefully slide the wiper switch assembly away from the steering column. Note the orientation and routing of any wiring to ensure proper installation of the replacement switch.
8. 8

   Install new wiper switch
   Position the new wiper switch onto the steering column bracket in the same orientation as the original. Align the mounting holes and insert the mounting screws. Hand-tighten the screws initially, ensuring the switch is properly seated before final tightening.
9. 9

   Connect electrical connector
   Route the wiring harness connector to the switch and press firmly until you hear or feel a distinct click indicating the locking tab has engaged. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is securely locked in place.
10. 10

    Reinstall upper steering column cover
    Position the upper steering column cover back onto the column assembly, ensuring all alignment tabs engage properly. Install the cover screws and torque to specification.
    Torque spec

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

    Reinstall lower steering column cover
    Align the lower steering column cover with the upper cover and column assembly. Press firmly to engage all retaining clips. Install the lower cover screws and torque to specification.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Reconnect battery negative terminal
    Place the negative battery cable back onto the negative battery post. Torque the battery terminal bolt to specification. Ensure the connection is tight and secure.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all steering column covers are properly seated and all clips are engaged before driving
2. Verify no tools or fasteners were left in the steering column area
3. Reset clock and radio presets as needed after battery reconnection

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position (engine does not need to be running)
• Test all wiper switch positions: off, intermittent (all speeds), low speed, and high speed
• Verify wiper mist function operates correctly with a quick push of the switch lever
• Test windshield washer spray function by pulling the wiper switch lever toward you
• Confirm wipers return to park position when switched off
• Check for proper operation with ignition off and accessory mode if applicable
• Verify no warning lights related to wiper system remain illuminated on instrument cluster

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