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
- Park vehicle on level ground with front wheels pointed straight ahead
- Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key/fob from vehicle
- Open hood and disconnect negative battery terminal
- Wait minimum 3 minutes for airbag system capacitors to discharge
- Adjust steering column to lowest and most extended position for access
Procedure
- 1Remove lower steering column coverLocate 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.
- 2Remove upper steering column coverInsert 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.
- 3Access combination switch mounting areaWith 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.
- 4Disconnect electrical connectorsPress 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.
- 5Remove combination switch mounting screwsLocate 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 specCover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
- 6Remove combination switch assemblyWith 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.
- 7Install new combination switchPosition 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.
- 8Install and torque mounting screwsInsert 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 specCover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
- 9Reconnect electrical connectorsRoute 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.
- 10Reinstall steering column coversPosition 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.
- 11Reconnect battery and initialize systemReturn 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 specBattery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
Reassembly
- Verify all steering column covers are properly secured with no gaps or loose clips
- Check that all combination switch functions (turn signals, wipers, high beams) operate through their full range of motion without binding
- 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