This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the windshield wiper switch located in the steering column multifunction switch assembly on 2012-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK models.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Wiper switch (multifunction switch) × 1 — Mopar 68171680AA or equivalent

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and apply parking brake
2. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key
3. Turn steering wheel to straight-ahead position
4. Open hood and disconnect negative battery terminal, then positive battery terminal

Procedure

1. 1

   Wait for airbag system discharge
   Wait a minimum of 2 minutes after battery disconnection to allow the airbag system capacitors to fully discharge before proceeding with any work on the steering column.
2. 2

   Remove upper and lower steering column covers
   Locate the two Torx T20 screws on the underside of the lower steering column cover. Remove these screws. Separate the lower cover from the column by pulling downward and away. Remove the upper cover by lifting it up and off the column assembly. Set covers aside.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Disconnect wiring harness from multifunction switch
   Locate the electrical connector on the left side of the multifunction switch assembly. Press the red locking tab on the connector and pull the connector straight out from the switch. Ensure the locking tab is fully released before pulling to avoid damaging connector pins.
4. 4

   Remove multifunction switch mounting screws
   Locate the two Torx T20 mounting screws securing the multifunction switch assembly to the steering column. These screws are positioned on the left side of the switch body. Remove both screws completely and retain for reinstallation.
   Torque spec

   Connector Screws4 Nm (3 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Remove multifunction switch from column
   Carefully slide the multifunction switch assembly (which includes the wiper switch) straight off the steering column turn signal cam. The switch should slide off easily once the mounting screws are removed. If resistance is felt, verify both screws are fully removed and that no wiring is caught.
6. 6

   Install new multifunction switch assembly
   Align the new multifunction switch assembly with the turn signal cam on the steering column. Slide the switch onto the column, ensuring the cam engages properly with the switch mechanism. The switch should sit flush against the column mounting surface.
7. 7

   Install and torque mounting screws
   Insert the two Torx T20 mounting screws into the multifunction switch. Thread them by hand first to ensure proper alignment. Torque the screws to specification using a torque wrench. Do not overtighten as this can crack the plastic switch housing.
   Torque spec

   Connector Screws4 Nm (3 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Reconnect wiring harness
   Align the wiring harness connector with the multifunction switch connector. Push the connector firmly into place until the red locking tab clicks into the locked position. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is fully seated and locked.
9. 9

   Reinstall steering column covers
   Position the upper steering column cover over the column and press into place. Align the lower cover with the upper cover and ensure all tabs engage properly. Install the two Torx T20 screws on the underside of the lower cover and torque to specification.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reconnect battery
    Reconnect the positive battery terminal first, then the negative terminal. Torque both terminal bolts to specification. Ensure terminals are clean and make good contact.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all steering column covers are properly seated with no gaps
2. Verify all electrical connectors are fully locked and seated
3. Check that steering wheel movement is not obstructed by wiring or switch assembly

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position (engine off) and verify instrument cluster displays normal
• Test wiper switch in all positions: off, intermittent (all delay settings), low speed, and high speed
• Verify washer function operates correctly when wiper switch is pulled toward steering wheel
• Test turn signal and headlight functions to confirm multifunction switch is fully operational
• Check for any warning lights related to airbag system; if airbag light remains on after starting, recheck all connections

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