Turn Signal Switch

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the multifunction turn signal switch assembly located in the steering column of a 2012-2018 Jeep Wrangler with the 3.6L V6 engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Multifunction turn signal switch assembly × 1 — Mopar 68078860AC or equivalent
• Steering column cover screws (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and set parking brake
2. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key
3. Turn steering wheel to straight-ahead position
4. Disconnect battery negative terminal and wait minimum 2 minutes for airbag system discharge
5. Lower steering column to lowest position if equipped with tilt/telescoping feature

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower steering column cover
   Locate the T20 Torx screws securing the lower steering column cover (typically 3-4 screws). Remove all screws and carefully pull the lower cover away from the column. Some covers have snap clips in addition to screws; gently pry if needed.
2. 2

   Remove upper steering column cover
   With the lower cover removed, locate the fasteners for the upper steering column cover. Remove the T20 or T25 Torx screws (typically 2-3 screws). Lift the upper cover away from the column, being careful not to damage the trim or any wiring passing through it.
3. 3

   Disconnect turn signal switch electrical connectors
   Locate the electrical connectors attached to the back of the turn signal switch assembly. There are typically 2 connectors: one larger multipin connector and one smaller connector. Press the locking tabs and carefully disconnect both connectors. Label them if desired for reassembly reference.
4. 4

   Remove wiper/washer switch connector
   If your multifunction switch includes the wiper/washer controls (most JK Wranglers do), locate and disconnect the wiper switch electrical connector on the opposite side of the multifunction switch. Press the connector lock tab and pull straight out.
5. 5

   Remove turn signal switch mounting screws
   Locate the two T20 Torx screws securing the multifunction switch housing to the steering column. These are typically located on the left side of the column behind where the switch lever extends. Remove both screws completely.
   ⚠Keep track of small screws; they can easily fall into the steering column housing.
   Torque spec

   Connector Screws4 Nm (3 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Remove turn signal switch assembly
   With all screws and connectors removed, carefully pull the multifunction switch assembly away from the steering column. You may need to manipulate the switch lever and housing slightly to clear the column opening. Feed any attached wiring through the column as you remove the assembly.
7. 7

   Install new turn signal switch assembly
   Position the new multifunction switch assembly near the steering column. Feed the wiring harness through the column opening first, ensuring it routes through the same path as the original. Align the switch housing with the mounting holes on the steering column and seat it fully against the column.
   ⚠Ensure wiring is not pinched between the switch housing and steering column before installing screws.
8. 8

   Install turn signal switch mounting screws
   Install the two T20 Torx mounting screws through the switch housing into the steering column. Tighten screws to specification using a torque wrench. Verify the switch housing is flush against the column and the lever operates smoothly through its full range of motion.
   Torque spec

   Connector Screws4 Nm (3 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Reconnect electrical connectors
   Reconnect all electrical connectors to the multifunction switch assembly in reverse order of removal. Ensure each connector locks into place with an audible click. Verify connector positions match the original configuration (turn signal connectors on one side, wiper connector on the other).
10. 10

    Reinstall steering column covers
    Position the upper steering column cover over the column, ensuring all wiring is tucked inside and not pinched. Install and tighten the upper cover screws. Place the lower steering column cover in position and install all fasteners. Ensure both covers fit flush with no gaps.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reconnect battery and initialize systems
    Reconnect the battery negative terminal and tighten to specification. Turn the ignition to ON position (engine off) and verify the instrument cluster illuminates without warning lights related to the turn signal or wiper systems.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all steering column covers are properly aligned and all fasteners are tightened to specification
2. Verify the turn signal lever returns to center position after each operation
3. Check that no wiring is visible between steering column cover gaps

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position and test turn signal operation in both left and right positions; verify indicator lights flash on instrument cluster
• Test hazard light function by pressing hazard button; all four turn signals should flash
• Verify high beam and low beam headlight switching operates correctly
• Test windshield wiper function in all speed settings (intermittent, low, high)
• Test windshield washer function; washer spray should activate with wiper operation
• Verify turn signal self-canceling function works when turning steering wheel through a complete turn in both directions
• Check for any airbag warning lights on instrument cluster; if present, scan for codes as clockspring may need attention

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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