Back to 2021 Hyundai Tucson

2021 HYUNDAI TUCSON

2.5L I4AWDAUTOMATICgas
1 active safety recall on this vehicle — view recalls
Repairs449Labor595Torque3779Fluid9DTC923Battery0Maintenance0Recalls1
electrical

Combination Switch

for 2021 Hyundai Tucson 2.5L I4 · AWD
Difficulty
Easy
Time
2.0 h
Tools
7
Steps
11

This procedure covers the replacement of the combination switch (turn signal/wiper/cruise control stalk assembly) on the steering column of a 2016-2024 Hyundai Tucson with 2.5L I4 engine.

Warnings

⚠️Always disconnect the negative battery terminal and wait at least 3 minutes before working near the airbag system to allow capacitors to discharge.
Do not rotate the steering wheel with the combination switch disconnected if equipped with electronic stability control, as this may set a steering angle sensor fault.
ℹ️Work with wheels pointed straight ahead to maintain steering angle sensor calibration.

Tools required

Torx driver set (T20, T25)Essential
Phillips screwdriverEssential
Flat blade trim removal toolsEssential
Torque wrench (5-15 Nm range)Essential
10mm socket and ratchetEssential
Flashlight or work light
Electrical contact cleaner

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 position and remove key/fob from vehicle
  3. Open hood and disconnect negative battery terminal
  4. Wait minimum 3 minutes for airbag system capacitors to discharge
  5. Adjust steering column to lowest and most extended position for access

Procedure

  1. 1
    Remove lower steering column cover
    Locate the two Phillips screws on the underside of the lower steering column cover. Remove both screws and carefully pull the lower cover downward and away from the column. Set aside the cover and screws.
  2. 2
    Remove upper steering column cover
    Insert a flat blade trim tool between the upper and middle sections of the steering column cover at the rear seam. Gently pry to release the clips. Work around the perimeter to release all clips, then lift the upper cover up and over the steering wheel spokes. Remove the cover completely.
  3. 3
    Access combination switch mounting area
    With both covers removed, locate the combination switch assembly on the left side of the steering column. Identify the wiring harness connector(s) at the base of the switch assembly. Note the routing of the wiring harness for reinstallation.
  4. 4
    Disconnect electrical connectors
    Press the locking tab on the main combination switch connector and pull the connector straight away from the switch. If equipped with a secondary connector for additional functions (cruise control, paddle shifters), disconnect it as well. Do not pull on the wires themselves.
  5. 5
    Remove combination switch mounting screws
    Locate the two Torx screws (typically T25) securing the combination switch to the steering column bracket. These are usually positioned on the bottom and rear of the switch housing. Remove both screws completely and retain them for reinstallation.
    Torque spec
    Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
  6. 6
    Remove combination switch assembly
    With mounting screws removed, grasp the combination switch firmly and pull it straight away from the steering column. The switch should slide off the column shaft. If resistance is felt, verify all screws are removed and check for any additional clips or retainers.
  7. 7
    Install new combination switch
    Position the new combination switch assembly onto the steering column shaft, ensuring proper alignment with the mounting bracket. Slide the switch fully onto the column until it seats against the bracket. Verify the switch is oriented correctly with stalks in their proper positions.
  8. 8
    Install and torque mounting screws
    Insert both Torx mounting screws through the combination switch into the steering column bracket. Thread screws by hand first to ensure proper engagement. Using a torque wrench, tighten both screws to specification in a cross pattern to ensure even seating.
    Torque spec
    Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
  9. 9
    Reconnect electrical connectors
    Route the wiring harness in the same path as the original installation. Connect the main combination switch connector, pressing firmly until the locking tab clicks into place. Connect any secondary connectors if equipped. Verify all connections are fully seated and locked.
  10. 10
    Reinstall steering column covers
    Position the upper steering column cover over the steering wheel and align it with the middle section. Press firmly around the perimeter to engage all clips. Install the lower cover, aligning the screw holes, and secure with the two Phillips screws. Do not overtighten plastic cover screws.
  11. 11
    Reconnect battery and initialize system
    Return to the engine bay and reconnect the negative battery terminal. Tighten the battery terminal bolt to specification using a torque wrench. Ensure the terminal has a clean, tight connection.
    Do not overtighten battery terminal bolts as this can damage the battery post or terminal clamp.
    Torque spec
    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

  1. Verify all steering column covers are properly secured with no gaps or loose clips
  2. Check that all combination switch functions (turn signals, wipers, high beams) operate through their full range of motion without binding
  3. Ensure no tools or parts were left in the steering column area

Verification

  • Turn ignition to ON position (do not start engine initially) and verify instrument cluster illuminates without warning lights related to steering or switches
  • Test left and right turn signals for proper operation and self-canceling function
  • Test windshield wiper controls through all speed settings including intermittent, low, and high
  • Test windshield washer function
  • Test high beam and flash-to-pass functions
  • If equipped, test cruise control set/resume/cancel functions
  • Start engine and verify all functions continue to operate correctly under power
  • Verify steering angle sensor has not set any fault codes by checking for electronic stability control or power steering warning lights

More procedures for this vehicle

Building an app?
Free API access to all this data — 50 requests/day, no card required.
Get an API key →
Run a shop?
Manage repairs, estimates, and customers with ShopBase — $249/mo, all features included.
Try ShopBase →