Turn Signal Switch

Remove and replace the turn signal switch assembly on the steering column, requiring removal of steering column covers and disconnection of electrical connectors.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Turn signal/multifunction switch assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Steering column cover clips (if damaged) × 1 — Replace as needed

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and set parking brake
2. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key fob from vehicle interior
3. Allow vehicle to sit for at least 5 minutes to ensure all control modules enter sleep mode
4. Open hood and locate battery in engine compartment
5. Disconnect negative battery terminal first, then positive terminal to prevent electrical short circuits and preserve control module memory
6. Wait minimum 10 minutes after battery disconnection to allow airbag system capacitors to fully discharge
7. Adjust steering wheel to lowest tilt position for maximum access to column covers

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect battery terminals
   Using a 10mm wrench, loosen and remove the negative battery terminal bolt first, then remove the positive terminal bolt. Move cables away from battery posts to prevent accidental reconnection during work.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts7 Nm (5 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Remove lower steering column cover
   Locate the three Torx screws on the underside of the lower steering column cover. Remove all screws using a T20 Torx driver. Gently pull the lower cover downward and away from the column, releasing any retaining clips. Set cover and screws aside in a safe location.
   Torque spec

   Steering Column Covers2 Nm (1.5 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Remove upper steering column cover
   With lower cover removed, locate the two Torx screws securing the upper column cover (one on each side near the instrument cluster). Remove screws using T20 Torx driver. Lift upper cover upward carefully, feeding it over the steering wheel adjustment lever. Be careful not to scratch the instrument cluster trim during removal.
   Torque spec

   Steering Column Covers2 Nm (1.5 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Access turn signal switch assembly
   With both covers removed, the turn signal switch will be visible on the left side of the steering column. Identify the main electrical connector at the base of the switch assembly and the two mounting screws securing the switch to the column housing.
5. 5

   Disconnect electrical connectors
   Locate the primary multifunction connector at the base of the turn signal switch. Press the connector locking tab and gently pull the connector straight away from the switch. If equipped with secondary connectors for additional functions, disconnect those as well by pressing their locking tabs. Note the routing of wiring harnesses for reinstallation.
6. 6

   Remove turn signal switch mounting screws
   Using a T20 Torx driver, remove the two mounting screws securing the turn signal switch to the steering column bracket. Support the switch with one hand while removing the second screw to prevent it from falling. Keep screws organized for reinstallation.
   Torque spec

   Switch Mounting Screws3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Remove old turn signal switch
   With mounting screws removed and connectors disconnected, carefully slide the turn signal switch assembly away from the steering column. Maneuver the switch carefully around any remaining wiring or column components. Inspect the mounting area for any damage or debris before installing the new switch.
8. 8

   Install new turn signal switch
   Position the new turn signal switch assembly onto the steering column bracket, aligning the mounting holes with the column housing. Ensure the switch stalk is oriented correctly (pointing left) and the electrical connector port is accessible. Insert but do not fully tighten the mounting screws initially to allow for adjustment.
9. 9

   Secure switch mounting screws
   Using a torque wrench with T20 Torx bit, tighten both switch mounting screws to specification in a cross pattern. Verify the switch is firmly seated against the column housing and operates smoothly through its full range of motion before proceeding.
   Torque spec

   Switch Mounting Screws3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reconnect electrical connectors
    Route wiring harnesses following the original path noted during removal. Connect the main multifunction connector to the turn signal switch, ensuring it clicks securely into place. Connect any secondary connectors if applicable. Gently tug on each connector to verify proper seating and locking.
11. 11

    Reinstall upper steering column cover
    Position the upper steering column cover over the column, feeding it carefully around the steering wheel adjustment lever. Align the cover with the lower mounting surface and insert the two mounting screws on each side. Hand-tighten screws first, then torque to specification using torque wrench.
    Torque spec

    Steering Column Covers2 Nm (1.5 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Reinstall lower steering column cover
    Align the lower steering column cover with the upper cover and column housing, ensuring all retaining clips are properly positioned. Press the cover into place until clips engage. Install the three mounting screws and torque to specification. Verify covers are flush and properly seated with no gaps.
    Torque spec

    Steering Column Covers2 Nm (1.5 lb-ft)
13. 13

    Reconnect battery terminals
    Reconnect the positive battery terminal first, followed by the negative terminal. Torque both terminal bolts to specification using a torque wrench. Ensure terminals are clean and make solid contact with battery posts.
    ⚠Always connect positive terminal first, then negative to prevent short circuits.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts7 Nm (5 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. After battery reconnection, the vehicle will need to initialize various systems
2. Turn ignition to ON position without starting engine and allow all control modules to complete initialization (approximately 30 seconds)
3. Check for any warning lights on instrument cluster that were not present before the procedure
4. Steering angle sensor may require recalibration using Maserati diagnostic tool if steering-related warnings appear

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position and verify instrument cluster illuminates normally
• Test turn signal operation in both left and right positions, confirming proper indicator flashing on instrument cluster and exterior lights
• Test high beam function by pulling turn signal stalk toward driver
• Test windshield wiper function using all wiper speed settings and intermittent operation
• Test windshield washer function by pulling stalk toward driver (extended pull)
• If equipped, verify cruise control buttons on stalk operate correctly
• Test hazard light function using separate hazard button to ensure turn signal circuits are not crossed
• Start engine and verify all turn signal and multifunction operations work correctly under normal operating conditions
• Check for proper turn signal self-cancellation after completing a turn with the steering wheel
• Verify no warning lights related to lighting or steering systems remain illuminated on instrument cluster

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

Codes that commonly send this job to the bay — tap one for symptoms, causes, and diagnostic steps.

Chasing one of these codes and not sure which part is guilty? Ask a master mechanic about YOUR car →

More procedures for this vehicle