Replace the ignition switch assembly on a 2014 Ram 2500 with 6.7L Cummins Diesel engine, requiring removal of steering column covers and disconnection of electrical components.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Ignition 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
3. Disconnect negative battery cable and wait minimum 2 minutes
4. Adjust steering column to lowest position and tilt fully forward for best access
5. Position seat rearward to provide adequate working space

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower steering column cover
   Locate and remove the Phillips head screws securing the lower steering column cover (typically 4 screws). Carefully pull the lower cover away from the column, releasing any retention clips. Set cover and hardware aside in organized manner.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws15 Nm (11 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Remove upper steering column cover
   Remove the screws securing the upper steering column cover. Separate the upper cover from the lower portion, being careful not to damage the clip locations. Note the position of any wiring harnesses routed through or around the covers.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws15 Nm (11 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Locate and access ignition switch assembly
   With covers removed, locate the ignition switch assembly mounted on the right side of the steering column. The switch is separate from the lock cylinder assembly. Identify the main electrical connector(s) attached to the switch body.
   ℹ️The ignition switch is the electrical component, not the mechanical lock cylinder where the key is inserted
4. 4

   Disconnect ignition switch electrical connectors
   Press the locking tab(s) on the ignition switch electrical connector(s) and carefully pull straight back to disconnect. There may be one or two connectors depending on configuration. Use a small flathead screwdriver to release stubborn connector locks if needed. Tag connectors if multiple are present.
   ⚠Do not pull on wires - grasp only the connector body to prevent damage to terminals
5. 5

   Remove ignition switch mounting hardware
   Remove the screws securing the ignition switch to the steering column lock housing. The switch is typically held by 2-3 small Torx or Phillips screws. Support the switch as you remove the final fastener to prevent it from falling.
   Torque spec

   Switch Mounting Screws5 Nm (4 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Remove ignition switch from column
   Carefully slide the ignition switch off the actuator rod extending from the lock cylinder housing. Note the orientation and engagement position of the switch with the actuator. The actuator rod must align with the slot in the back of the switch.
   ℹ️Observe the position of the actuator rod - it should be in the OFF/LOCK position for installation of new switch
7. 7

   Prepare new ignition switch
   Remove new ignition switch from packaging. Verify the switch is in the OFF/LOCK position (actuator slot aligned properly). Compare new switch to old switch to confirm correct part number and connector configuration match.
   ⚠Ensure new switch position matches lock cylinder position to prevent binding or damage during installation
8. 8

   Install new ignition switch
   Align the new ignition switch actuator slot with the actuator rod extending from the lock cylinder. Slide the switch onto the rod while ensuring proper engagement. The switch should seat flush against the lock housing without forcing.
   ⚠Do not force the switch into position - misalignment will cause binding and prevent proper operation
9. 9

   Secure ignition switch mounting hardware
   Install the ignition switch mounting screws and tighten to specification using a torque wrench. Start all screws by hand before final tightening. Ensure switch remains properly aligned with actuator rod during tightening.
   Torque spec

   Switch Mounting Screws5 Nm (4 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reconnect electrical connectors
    Connect the ignition switch electrical connector(s) to the new switch. Push firmly until the locking tab(s) click into place. Gently tug on connectors to verify secure engagement. Route wiring to prevent interference with steering column movement.
    ℹ️Ensure connector orientation is correct - forcing backwards will damage pins
11. 11

    Perform initial function test
    Before reinstalling covers, reconnect the negative battery cable. Insert key and test all ignition switch positions: OFF/LOCK, ACC, RUN, and START. Verify proper operation in each position and that key can be removed only in OFF/LOCK position. Disconnect battery again before proceeding.
    ⚠If switch does not operate smoothly in all positions, remove and verify proper actuator rod alignment
12. 12

    Reinstall upper steering column cover
    Position the upper steering column cover over the column, ensuring all wiring is properly routed and not pinched. Align cover with lower mounting points and secure with screws, tightening to specification.
    Torque spec

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

    Reinstall lower steering column cover
    Position the lower steering column cover, aligning all retention clips and screw holes. Snap clips into place and install screws, tightening to specification. Verify covers are secure and properly seated with no gaps.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws15 Nm (11 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Reconnect negative battery cable and tighten securely
2. Return steering column to normal operating position
3. Return driver seat to normal operating position
4. Clear any diagnostic trouble codes that may have been set during battery disconnect

Verification

• Insert key and verify smooth operation through all ignition positions: OFF/LOCK, ACC, RUN, and START
• Confirm engine starts normally and all ignition-controlled accessories function properly
• Verify key can only be removed in OFF/LOCK position with steering wheel locked
• Test that steering column can tilt and telescope normally without interference
• Check that all warning lights illuminate properly during key-on engine-off condition
• Verify no airbag warning lights are illuminated on instrument cluster
• Confirm proper operation of starter interlock (key cannot be removed unless in PARK)
• Test all steering wheel controls and horn operation to ensure no wiring was damaged

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