Replace the headlight dimmer switch (multi-function switch) on the steering column to restore high/low beam and turn signal functionality.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Combination switch (dimmer/turn signal) × 1 — 84140-06180 or equivalent
• Steering column trim panel clips (if broken) × 2 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and set parking brake
2. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key
3. Allow vehicle to sit for at least 3 minutes after turning off ignition to allow airbag system capacitors to discharge
4. Gather all tools and new dimmer switch assembly
5. Position seat rearward for better access to steering column

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect battery negative terminal
   Open hood and locate battery in engine compartment. Using 10mm socket, loosen negative terminal bolt and remove cable from battery post. Secure cable away from battery to prevent accidental contact. Wait additional 3 minutes after disconnect.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove lower steering column cover
   Locate two Phillips screws on underside of lower steering column cover. Remove screws and set aside. Gently pull lower cover away from column, releasing retaining clips. Some clips may require gentle prying with trim tool. Remove cover completely and set aside.
3. 3

   Remove upper steering column cover
   With lower cover removed, locate upper cover mounting points. Remove Phillips screws securing upper cover (typically 2-3 screws). Carefully lift upper cover up and over steering wheel, being mindful of clearance. Set cover aside in clean area.
4. 4

   Access dimmer switch connector
   Locate the multi-function switch assembly on left side of steering column. Identify the large gray electrical connector coming from the switch. Trace wiring to locate connector lock tab, typically 6-8 inches down the harness below the column.
5. 5

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Press down on connector lock tab while simultaneously pulling connector halves apart. Use moderate force but do not pry or force. If connector is stubborn, wiggle gently while maintaining pressure on lock tab. Inspect connector pins for damage or corrosion.
   ⚠Do not pull on wires themselves. Always grip connector bodies to prevent wire damage.
6. 6

   Remove dimmer switch mounting screws
   Locate two Phillips screws securing dimmer switch assembly to left side of steering column bracket. These screws are typically located on the outboard side of the switch housing. Remove both screws completely and retain for reinstallation or replacement.
7. 7

   Remove old dimmer switch
   With screws removed, carefully slide dimmer switch assembly forward and away from steering column. The switch may have a tab that engages a slot in the column housing - gently work the switch free. Remove switch completely and set aside. Inspect mounting area for debris or damage.
8. 8

   Install new dimmer switch
   Position new dimmer switch assembly near mounting location. Align switch lever and ensure any alignment tabs or slots are properly oriented. Slide switch into position on steering column until it seats flush against mounting surface. Verify switch lever operates smoothly through full range before securing.
9. 9

   Secure dimmer switch mounting screws
   Insert both mounting screws through switch housing into column bracket. Hand-tighten screws initially to ensure proper thread engagement. Using torque wrench, tighten screws to 8.0 Nm (6 lb-ft) in a cross pattern. Do not overtighten as this can crack plastic housing.
   ⚠Overtightening mounting screws can crack switch housing and cause immediate failure.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reconnect electrical connector
    Align electrical connector halves, ensuring pins are properly aligned with sockets. Press connector together firmly until lock tab clicks into place. Tug gently on connector to verify secure connection. Route wiring to prevent pinching during cover reinstallation.
11. 11

    Reinstall upper steering column cover
    Position upper steering column cover over column and dimmer switch assembly. Align screw holes and ensure no wiring is pinched. Install Phillips screws and tighten to 11.0 Nm (8 lb-ft). Verify cover sits flush and does not interfere with switch operation.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Reinstall lower steering column cover
    Align lower cover with upper cover and steering column. Press cover into place, ensuring all retaining clips engage properly. Install Phillips screws and tighten to 11.0 Nm (8 lb-ft). Check that cover is secure with no gaps or rattles.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
13. 13

    Reconnect battery
    Return to engine compartment and reconnect negative battery cable to negative terminal post. Using 10mm socket and torque wrench, tighten terminal bolt to exactly 6.0 Nm (4 lb-ft). Overtightening can damage terminal or battery post.
    ⚠Battery terminals are soft lead. Overtightening will cause permanent damage.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Verify all steering column covers are properly secured with no gaps
2. Check that dimmer switch lever operates smoothly without binding through full range of motion
3. Ensure no tools or parts were left in steering column area
4. Reset radio presets and clock as needed

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position (engine off) and verify instrument cluster illuminates normally with no warning lights related to lighting system
• Operate dimmer switch through all positions: low beam, high beam, and flash-to-pass
• Verify turn signals operate correctly in both left and right positions with proper indicator operation on dash
• Start engine and verify all lighting functions work properly under load
• Test high beam indicator light on instrument cluster illuminates when high beams are activated
• Check for any dashboard warning lights or codes related to lighting or airbag systems
• Verify steering column covers are secure and do not rattle during test drive

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