electrical
Wiper Switch
for 2021 Hyundai Tucson 2.5L I4 · AWD
Difficulty
Easy
Time
1.0 h
Tools
5
Steps
11
This procedure covers removal and replacement of the wiper switch (multifunction switch) on the steering column of a 2016-2024 Hyundai Tucson with 2.5L I4 engine.
Warnings
⚠Disconnecting the battery will erase radio presets and may require clock reset
ℹ️If vehicle is equipped with airbag system, wait at least 3 minutes after battery disconnect before working near steering column
Tools required
10mm socket and ratchetEssential
Phillips head screwdriverEssential
Flat blade trim removal tool
Torque wrench (5-15 Nm range)Essential
Work light or flashlight
Parts
- Wiper/multifunction switch assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
Preparation
- Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
- Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key
- Disconnect negative battery terminal and secure cable away from battery post
- Wait minimum 3 minutes for airbag system capacitor discharge
- Adjust steering wheel to full down and full extension position for best 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 in safe location.
- 2Remove upper steering column coverWith lower cover removed, locate the Phillips screws securing the upper steering column cover (typically 2-3 screws). Remove screws and lift upper cover upward and away from steering column. Note the position of any clips or tabs for reinstallation.
- 3Disconnect wiper switch electrical connectorLocate the electrical connector on the back of the wiper switch assembly on the left side of the steering column. Press the locking tab and carefully pull the connector straight away from the switch. Do not pull on wires.
- 4Remove wiper switch mounting screwsLocate the two mounting screws securing the wiper switch to the steering column bracket. These are typically Phillips head screws positioned on the side of the switch assembly. Remove both screws completely and retain for reinstallation.
- 5Remove wiper switch assemblyWith mounting screws removed, carefully slide the wiper switch assembly away from the steering column. Note the orientation and routing of any wiring. The switch should slide straight off the column mounting bracket.
- 6Install new wiper switch assemblyPosition the new wiper switch assembly onto the steering column mounting bracket in the same orientation as the original. Ensure the switch sits flush against the mounting surface and aligns with screw holes.
- 7Install wiper switch mounting screwsInstall the two mounting screws through the switch assembly into the steering column bracket. Tighten screws evenly and securely, but do not overtighten plastic housing. Torque to specification if using module mounting hardware.Torque specModule Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
- 8Reconnect electrical connectorAlign the electrical connector with the wiper switch terminal and push firmly until the locking tab clicks into place. Gently tug on connector to verify it is fully seated and locked.
- 9Reinstall upper steering column coverPosition the upper steering column cover over the column, ensuring all clips and tabs align properly. Install the Phillips screws and tighten securely.Torque specCover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
- 10Reinstall lower steering column coverPosition the lower steering column cover beneath the column, aligning all mounting points and clips. Install the two Phillips screws and tighten securely.Torque specCover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
- 11Reconnect batteryReconnect the negative battery terminal to the battery post. Tighten the terminal bolt to specification, ensuring secure connection without overtightening.Torque specBattery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
Reassembly
- Ensure all steering column covers are properly seated with no gaps or misalignment
- Verify all screws are tightened and no fasteners were left loose
- Check that wiper switch lever moves freely without binding or interference from covers
Verification
- Turn ignition to ON position (engine can remain off)
- Test wiper switch in all positions: off, intermittent (multiple speeds if equipped), low speed, and high speed
- Verify washer function activates when wiper lever is pulled toward steering wheel
- Test intermittent wiper delay adjustment if equipped
- Confirm wiper switch returns to off position and wipers park correctly
- Check that instrument cluster wiper indicator corresponds to switch position