Back to 2014 Ram 2500

2014 RAM 2500

6.7L I6 Cummins Diesel4WDAUTOMATICdieselturbo
16 active safety recalls on this vehicle — view recalls
Repairs461Labor597Torque3877Fluid9DTC789Battery1Maintenance0Recalls16
electrical

Combination Switch

for 2014 Ram 2500 6.7L I6 Cummins Diesel · 4WD
Difficulty
Moderate
Time
3.2 h
Tools
10
Steps
13

Replace the combination switch (multi-function switch) on the steering column, which controls turn signals, headlights, wipers, and cruise control.

Warnings

⚠️Disconnect battery and wait 2 minutes before beginning work to prevent airbag deployment. Airbag can cause severe injury or death.
Turn steering wheel to center position and do not rotate while airbag is removed to avoid damaging clock spring.
Do not strike steering column components with hammers or apply excessive force. Steering column is collapsible and can be damaged.
ℹ️Radio anti-theft code may need to be re-entered after battery reconnection if equipped.

Tools required

10mm socketEssential
8mm socketEssential
Ratchet and extensionEssential
Trim panel removal tool setEssential
Torx T20 driverEssential
Steering wheel pullerEssential
Torque wrenchEssential
Flathead screwdriver
Wire tie or tape
Telescoping magnet

Parts

  • Combination switch (multi-function switch) × 1 — Use OEM specification
  • Steering column shroud clips (if broken) × 2 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

  1. Park vehicle on level ground and set parking brake
  2. Turn steering wheel to straight-ahead position
  3. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key
  4. Open hood and disconnect negative battery cable, then positive battery cable
  5. Wait minimum 2 minutes for airbag system capacitor to discharge
  6. Adjust steering column to lowest tilt position and fully retracted position for access

Procedure

  1. 1
    Remove lower steering column shroud
    Locate the two cover screws on the underside of the lower steering column shroud. Remove both screws and carefully pull the lower shroud down and away from the column. Set aside in a safe location.
    Torque spec
    Cover Screws15 Nm (11 lb-ft)
  2. 2
    Remove upper steering column shroud
    With the lower shroud removed, lift the upper steering column shroud upward to disengage the clips at the front. Pull the upper shroud away from the column and set aside. Inspect the clips for damage and replace if broken.
  3. 3
    Disconnect combination switch electrical connectors
    Locate the two large electrical connectors on the combination switch assembly. Press the red locking tabs and pull each connector straight out from the switch body. Note the position and routing of the wiring harness for reinstallation. Use wire ties or tape to support connectors away from work area.
  4. 4
    Remove clockspring connector access cover
    If necessary for access, remove the small plastic access cover on the side of the steering column near the clockspring. This may be held by a single retaining clip or screw. Set cover aside carefully to avoid breaking tabs.
    Torque spec
    Cover Screws15 Nm (11 lb-ft)
  5. 5
    Remove combination switch mounting screws
    Locate the two Torx T20 screws securing the combination switch to the steering column. These are typically located on the left side of the column. Remove both screws completely and retain for reinstallation. Support the switch assembly as you remove the final screw.
  6. 6
    Remove combination switch assembly
    Carefully slide the combination switch assembly off the steering column shaft. The switch contains the turn signal and wiper stalks and may need to be angled slightly to clear the column. Do not force or twist the assembly. If resistance is felt, verify all mounting screws and connectors have been removed.
  7. 7
    Inspect steering column and clockspring
    With the combination switch removed, inspect the clockspring for proper centering and any visible damage. Verify the clockspring locking tab is engaged if present. Check steering column for any damage, cracks, or loose components. Clean any debris from the mounting surfaces.
  8. 8
    Install new combination switch assembly
    Align the new combination switch assembly with the steering column shaft. Slide the switch onto the column, ensuring it is fully seated and the mounting holes align properly. The switch should slide on smoothly without forcing. Verify the stalks operate freely and do not bind.
  9. 9
    Install combination switch mounting screws
    Install the two Torx T20 mounting screws through the combination switch into the steering column. Tighten screws evenly in a cross pattern to the specified torque. Do not overtighten as the mounting points are plastic and can strip.
    Torque spec
    Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
  10. 10
    Reconnect electrical connectors
    Route the wiring harness in the original position and reconnect both electrical connectors to the combination switch. Push each connector firmly until you hear and feel the locking tab click into place. Tug gently on each connector to verify it is locked. Reinstall clockspring access cover if removed.
  11. 11
    Reinstall upper steering column shroud
    Position the upper steering column shroud over the column, aligning the clips at the front. Press down firmly until the clips engage. Ensure the shroud is seated evenly on both sides and does not interfere with switch stalks.
  12. 12
    Reinstall lower steering column shroud
    Align the lower steering column shroud under the column and position it against the upper shroud. Install the two cover screws and tighten to the specified torque. Verify the shroud halves meet evenly with no gaps.
    Torque spec
    Cover Screws15 Nm (11 lb-ft)
  13. 13
    Reconnect battery
    Reconnect the positive battery cable first, then the negative battery cable. Tighten battery terminal bolts to the specified torque. Do not overtighten as this can damage terminals.
    Connect positive terminal first, then negative to avoid short circuit.
    Torque spec
    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

  1. Ensure all steering column shroud clips are properly engaged
  2. Verify no tools or parts are left in the steering column area
  3. Check that all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
  4. Confirm steering wheel is still in centered position

Verification

  • Turn ignition to ON position (engine off) and verify no airbag warning lights remain illuminated after initial bulb check
  • Test turn signal operation in both left and right positions, verify dashboard indicators flash
  • Test headlight switch through all positions: off, parking lights, headlights, and high beams
  • Test windshield wiper switch through all speeds including intermittent settings
  • Test windshield washer function
  • Test cruise control set, resume, and cancel functions if equipped
  • Test hazard lights by pressing hazard switch
  • Verify all stalks return to center position properly
  • Start engine and retest all functions under normal operating conditions
  • Perform a test drive and verify all combination switch functions operate correctly

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