Easy to follow step by step guide on how to replace an automotive turn signal switch, though appearances may vary the process is similar for most vehicles.
Difficulty Level - 5 of 10
Tools and Supplies Needed
Begin with the vehicle on level ground in park with the emergency brake set, engine "OFF".
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.