Wiper Switch

This procedure covers removal and replacement of the wiper switch (multifunction switch) on the steering column of the 2007-2013 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Wiper/Multifunction Switch Assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Steering column trim clips (if damaged) × 4 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition off and remove key from ignition
3. Turn steering wheel to center position and note wheel position
4. Open hood and locate battery in engine compartment
5. Wait 10 minutes after battery disconnect to allow airbag system capacitors to discharge

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect battery negative terminal
   Using a 10mm socket, loosen the negative terminal bolt on the battery. Remove the negative cable and secure it away from the battery post to prevent accidental reconnection.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Wait for airbag system discharge
   Wait a minimum of 10 minutes to allow the airbag system capacitors to fully discharge. This is critical for safety when working around the steering column components.
3. 3

   Remove lower steering column trim panels
   Locate the lower steering column cover panels. Using a Torx T20 bit, remove the screws securing the lower trim panels. Gently pull the panels away from the column, releasing the retaining clips. Work carefully to avoid breaking the plastic clips.
4. 4

   Remove upper steering column cover
   Remove the Torx screws (T25) securing the upper steering column cover. Separate the upper cover from the lower section, being mindful of any wiring clips or harness routing. Set the cover aside in a clean area.
5. 5

   Locate and access wiper switch assembly
   Identify the wiper switch module on the left side of the steering column. Note the electrical connector routing and position. The switch assembly is secured by mounting screws and a locking tab mechanism.
6. 6

   Disconnect wiper switch electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector at the base of the wiper switch assembly. Press the locking tab and carefully pull the connector straight out from the switch module. Do not pull on the wires themselves. If the connector is difficult to access, you may need to partially remove the switch mounting first.
7. 7

   Remove wiper switch mounting bolts
   Using a Torx T25 bit, remove the mounting bolts securing the wiper switch assembly to the steering column. There are typically two bolts. Keep these bolts organized as they may differ in length.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Remove wiper switch from column
   Gently slide the wiper switch assembly away from the steering column. The switch may have a locating pin or alignment feature that requires slight rotation or angling to clear the column. Be careful not to damage the switch housing or column components during removal.
9. 9

   Install new wiper switch assembly
   Position the new wiper switch assembly onto the steering column, aligning any locating pins or tabs with their corresponding slots. Ensure the switch is fully seated before proceeding to secure it.
10. 10

    Install and torque mounting bolts
    Insert the mounting bolts and hand-tighten them first to ensure proper thread engagement. Using a torque wrench, tighten the bolts to specification in a cross pattern if applicable to ensure even seating.
    Torque spec

    Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reconnect electrical connector
    Align the electrical connector with the switch terminal and push firmly until the locking tab clicks into place. Verify the connector is fully seated by gently tugging on it. Ensure no wires are pinched or stressed.
12. 12

    Reinstall steering column covers
    Position the upper steering column cover and secure with the Torx screws. Verify all wiring is properly routed and not pinched. Install the lower column trim panels, ensuring all clips engage properly before tightening screws. Torque screws to specification if applicable.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws15 Nm (11 lb-ft)
13. 13

    Reconnect battery negative terminal
    Clean the battery terminal and post if necessary with a wire brush. Reconnect the negative cable to the battery post and tighten the terminal bolt to specification using a 10mm socket and torque wrench.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all trim panels are properly clipped and secured before final tightening
2. Route all wiring through original pathways to prevent pinching
3. Verify steering wheel is still in center position after reassembly

Verification

• Turn ignition to position 2 (on) without starting engine and test all wiper functions: intermittent, low speed, high speed, and single wipe
• Test washer fluid spray function with wiper activation
• Verify all wiper speeds operate correctly and switch returns to proper positions
• Test turn signal functions on both sides to ensure multifunction switch is fully operational
• Check for any dash warning lights related to wiper or switch malfunction
• Re-initialize power windows by holding each window switch down for 2 seconds after full down position, then up for 2 seconds after full up position

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