ignition

Ignition Switch

for 2017 Maserati Levante 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo · RWD

Editorial review:Chris Hackleman — Master Technician · 20+ years · Jeff Moore — Master Lexus & Toyota Mechanic · 20+ years

Difficulty

Moderate

Time

1.8 h

Tools

Steps

✓Expert-verified. Personally reviewed and approved by OLP's master technicians (Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — 20+ years each). Always follow the vehicle's factory service information and torque specs.

Remove and replace the ignition switch assembly on a 2017 Maserati Levante, including steering column access and electrical reconnection.

Warnings

⚠️Disconnect battery negative terminal and wait 15 minutes before working near airbag components to prevent accidental deployment

⚠The steering wheel must remain locked in center position during this procedure to prevent clockspring damage

⚠Do not force the steering column lock mechanism as it may damage internal components

ℹ️Vehicle security system may require relearning procedure after ignition switch replacement - consult dealer

Tools required

Torx bit set (T20, T25, T30)Essential

Socket set (8mm, 10mm, 13mm)Essential

Torque wrench (5-35 Nm range)Essential

Trim removal tool set

Flashlight or work light

Wire tie or locking pliers

Parts

Ignition switch assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

Park vehicle on level surface and apply parking brake
Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key fob from vehicle
Disconnect negative battery terminal and isolate cable
Wait minimum 15 minutes for airbag system capacitors to discharge
Turn steering wheel to center position and verify wheels are straight
Adjust steering column to lowest and fully forward position for access

Procedure

1
Remove lower steering column covers
Remove the two lower dash panels beneath the steering column using trim removal tools. Remove the lower steering column cover by releasing the clips on both sides and removing the cover screws at the bottom edge. Separate the upper and lower column covers carefully to avoid breaking mounting tabs.
Torque spec
Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
2
Disconnect steering column electrical connectors
Locate all electrical connectors attached to the steering column assembly including airbag connector (yellow), ignition switch connector (gray), and any additional sensor connectors. Press the release tabs and carefully disconnect each connector. Note the routing and position of each connector for reassembly.
⚠Handle airbag connector with care - do not probe terminals or allow metal contact
3
Remove steering column mounting bolts
Locate the four steering column mounting bolts that secure the column to the dash support structure. Support the steering column weight with one hand. Remove all four steering column bolts completely. Carefully lower the column approximately 3-4 inches to access the ignition switch housing. Do not allow column to hang by wiring harnesses.
⚠Support column weight to prevent damage to clockspring and wiring harnesses
Torque spec
Steering Column Bolts30 Nm (22 lb-ft)
4
Release steering lock mechanism
With the column lowered, locate the ignition switch lock cylinder and housing. If equipped with electronic steering lock, locate the small access hole near the lock cylinder. Using a small screwdriver or release tool, press the internal release button while gently pulling the lock cylinder. For mechanical locks, ensure key is in ACC position before proceeding.
ℹ️Some Levante models use electronic lock - verify system type before attempting removal
5
Remove ignition switch mounting hardware
Locate the ignition switch mounting screws on the side of the steering column housing (typically 2-3 screws). Remove all switch mounting screws using appropriate Torx or Phillips driver. Note the position of any brackets or alignment pins for proper installation of replacement switch.
Torque spec
Switch Mounting Screws5 Nm (4 lb-ft)
6
Disconnect ignition switch harness
Locate the main ignition switch electrical connector attached to the back of the switch assembly. Press the connector release tab and pull straight back to disconnect. If connector has a secondary lock, slide the lock tab away before releasing the main connector. Inspect connector terminals for corrosion or damage.
Torque spec
Connector Bolts7 Nm (5 lb-ft)
7
Remove old ignition switch
Carefully slide the ignition switch assembly out of the steering column housing. Note the orientation and alignment of any guide pins or locating tabs. Inspect the column housing for any debris or damage. Clean the mounting surface with electrical contact cleaner if necessary.
8
Install new ignition switch
Compare new switch to old unit to verify correct replacement part. Align the new ignition switch with the guide pins and locating tabs in the steering column housing. Slide the switch assembly into position ensuring it seats fully against the housing. Verify the switch actuator aligns properly with the lock cylinder mechanism.
⚠Ensure switch is fully seated before installing mounting screws to prevent misalignment
9
Secure ignition switch assembly
Install all ignition switch mounting screws hand-tight first to ensure proper alignment. Once all screws are started, torque each screw in a cross pattern to specification. Verify the switch operates smoothly through all positions (LOCK, ACC, ON, START) without binding.
Torque spec
Switch Mounting Screws5 Nm (4 lb-ft)
10
Reconnect electrical connections
Reconnect the main ignition switch electrical connector ensuring it clicks fully into place and the secondary lock engages if equipped. Reconnect all other steering column connectors in their original positions. Verify all connector locks are fully engaged and harnesses are routed correctly away from moving parts.
Torque spec
Connector Bolts7 Nm (5 lb-ft)
11
Reinstall steering column
Carefully raise the steering column back into its original mounting position, ensuring no wiring is pinched. Align the mounting bolt holes with the dash support bracket. Install all four steering column mounting bolts hand-tight, then torque to specification in a cross pattern starting with the upper bolts.
Torque spec
Steering Column Bolts30 Nm (22 lb-ft)
12
Reinstall steering column covers
Position the lower steering column cover and engage all mounting clips. Install and torque the cover screws to specification. Reinstall the upper column cover ensuring all tabs are properly engaged. Reinstall the lower dash panels and verify all trim pieces are secure with no gaps or rattles.
Torque spec
Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)

Reassembly

Reconnect battery negative terminal and tighten securely
Perform steering angle sensor calibration if equipped with drive mode select or active safety systems
Verify all steering column adjustment functions operate correctly
Test all switch positions with key fob to ensure proper electrical operation

Verification

Turn ignition through all positions (LOCK, ACC, ON, START) and verify smooth operation without binding
Verify instrument cluster illuminates in ON position and starter engages in START position
Confirm steering lock engages when key is removed and vehicle is in LOCK position
Test all steering column-mounted switches (turn signals, wipers, cruise control) for proper operation
Verify no warning lights remain illuminated on instrument cluster related to ignition or security system
If security warning appears, perform key fob relearn procedure per manufacturer specifications

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