This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the combination switch (multifunction switch) assembly on the steering column, which controls turn signals, headlights, and wipers.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Combination switch assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Steering column cover clips (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key from ignition
3. Ensure steering wheel is in the straight-ahead position
4. Open hood and locate battery in engine compartment
5. Disconnect negative battery cable and secure away from battery post
6. Wait at least 3 minutes to allow airbag system capacitors to discharge
7. Adjust steering column to lowest and most extended position for access

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower steering column cover
   Locate the two Phillips head 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 with screws.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Remove upper steering column cover
   With the lower cover removed, locate the retaining screws securing the upper steering column cover (typically two screws at the bottom edge). Remove the screws, then gently separate the upper cover from the column by pulling upward and forward. Watch for any clips that may still be engaged.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Locate combination switch assembly
   With both covers removed, identify the combination switch assembly mounted on the left side of the steering column. The assembly consists of the turn signal/headlight stalk and wiper/washer stalk. Identify the electrical connectors at the base of the assembly (typically two large multipin connectors).
4. 4

   Disconnect electrical connectors
   Carefully press the locking tab on each electrical connector while pulling the connector away from the combination switch. There are typically two connectors: one for the turn signal/headlight functions and one for the wiper/washer functions. Mark or photograph connector positions if needed for reference during reassembly.
   ⚠Support the connector housing while releasing the locking tab to prevent breaking the tab or damaging the wiring harness.
5. 5

   Remove combination switch mounting bolts
   Locate the mounting bolts securing the combination switch assembly to the steering column (typically two or three bolts accessible from the front and side). Using a 10mm socket, remove all mounting bolts completely and set aside.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Remove combination switch assembly
   Gently slide the combination switch assembly away from the steering column. You may need to angle it slightly to clear the column and wiring. Be careful not to snag any wiring during removal. Inspect the mounting area for any debris or damage.
7. 7

   Prepare new combination switch
   Unpack the new combination switch assembly and compare it to the old unit to verify correct replacement part. Ensure all stalks move freely and that connector pins are clean and undamaged. Check that mounting holes align properly.
8. 8

   Install new combination switch
   Position the new combination switch assembly onto the steering column, aligning the mounting holes. Route any attached wiring to avoid pinching. Insert mounting bolts hand-tight first to ensure proper alignment before final torquing.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Reconnect electrical connectors
   Connect both electrical connectors to the combination switch, ensuring each connector is fully seated until the locking tab clicks into place. Gently tug on each connector to verify it is locked. Verify connectors are connected to the correct ports by referencing your earlier photos or marks.
   ⚠Ensure connectors are oriented correctly before pushing them together. Forcing a connector in the wrong orientation will damage the pins.
10. 10

    Reinstall upper steering column cover
    Position the upper steering column cover over the column, ensuring all clips align with their receptacles. Press firmly to engage clips, then install the retaining screws at the specified torque.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reinstall lower steering column cover
    Align the lower steering column cover with the upper cover and column assembly. Push upward until clips engage, then install the Phillips head screws at the specified torque. Verify both covers are secure and properly aligned.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Reconnect battery
    Return to the engine compartment and reconnect the negative battery cable to the battery post. Tighten the terminal bolt to the specified torque. Do not overtighten as this can damage the battery post.
    ⚠Verify no tools or materials are left in the engine compartment or near the steering column before reconnecting the battery.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all steering column covers are properly aligned and all clips are fully engaged
2. Verify no wiring is pinched between covers or caught in moving parts
3. Check that all stalks return to their neutral positions smoothly

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position (engine off) and verify no warning lights related to the combination switch remain illuminated
• Test turn signal function in both left and right positions, verify signals flash and cancel properly
• Test high beam and low beam headlight operation using the combination switch
• Test windshield wiper operation in all speed settings and verify washer function works
• Test hazard light function
• Verify cruise control switches (if equipped on this stalk) operate correctly
• Turn steering wheel lock-to-lock while operating various switch functions to ensure no binding or interference
• Check for any abnormal noises or resistance when operating the switch stalks

More procedures for this vehicle