Replace a Turn Signal Switch

Step 1 - Start by removing the negative battery cable to help prevent electrical short circuits while the job is being done. Please visit our battery cable removal guide for further instructions.

Step 2 - Next, the steering wheel airbag must be removed, please visit our airbag removal guide for further instructions.

Step 3 - After the airbag has been removed the steering wheel is next, please visit our steering wheel removal guide for further instructions.

Step 4 -  Once the steering wheel has been removed, the clock spring must removed next, please visit our steering wheel clock spring removal guide for further instructions.

Step 5 - After the clock spring removal, locate the column fascia pieces, this will vary and may not be needed for some applications.

Step 6 - Simply grasp the pieces and remove them, they should pull right off.

Step 7 - Using a small screwdriver, gently pry the top plate from the column. (Note: Some models are designed without this piece, skip this step.)

Step 8 - Once the top plate has been removed, inspect it for damage.

Step 9 - The turn signal switch along with the cruise control switch will be exposed. (Note: Some cruise control switches are located on the steering wheel.)

Step 10 - Gently grasp the cruise control switch and slide it from the housing.

Step 11 - Once the cruise control switch has been removed, check it for damage and corrosion on the electrical terminals.

Step 12 - Loosen and remove the turn signal switch mounting bolt or bolts.

Step 13 - After the mounting bolt has been removed, grasp the switch/bowl assembly and gently pull it outward to remove.

Step 14 - Once the switch has been removed, inspect wiring connections and terminals for corrosion. (Note: Some turn signal switches are designed with a wiring harness attached which will need to be disconnected near the bottom of the column before removal.)

Step 15 - Using a Torx or screwdriver remove the bezel mounting bolts from the turn signal switch.

Step 16 - After removal of all mounting bolts, remove the bezel from the switch.

Step 17 - The failed turn signal switch is now ready for replacement.

Step 18 - Compare the new switch to the old unit, they should match identically.

Step 19 - After inserting the new switch into the bezel, install and tighten screws by hand to avoid cross threading, tighten evenly.

Step 20 - Before re-installing the new switch, inspect the steering column for damage or stripped threads.

Step 21 - Gently place the bezel and new switch over the steering column.

Step 23 - After pushing the switch into place, insert and tighten the mounting bolt.

Step 24 - Next, re-install the cruise control switch (if equipped).

Step 25 - Re-install fascia pieces.

Step 26 - Once all fascia pieces have been installed, move the top plate back into position and gently lower it into the column.

Step 27 - Once the top plate has been set into place, push the unit until fully installed, the clock spring, steering wheel and airbag can now be re-installed.

Helpful Information

When a turn signal switch fails it will cause blinker operation, brake light or fuse operation failure.