How to Fix Intermittent-Wiper and Turn Betoken Problems on the Multifunction Switch

Tackle repairs to this complicated lever with a shop manual and a digital multimeter.

Introduction

Plow signals and intermittent wiper controls are the most common failures on the multifunction switch in late-model cars. Save money by doing the repair yourself—information technology'due south not as complicated as information technology looks.

Tools Required

Remove the Multifunction Switch

Once known every bit a turn signal or blinker switch, this lever now besides controls headlights, high beams, emergency flashers, wipers and washers. No wonder it's called the multifunction switch (MFS) these days. Unfortunately, the MFS has a fairly high failure rate.

The 2 most common failures are:

  1. A broken turn signal "canceling" mechanism that won't shut off the "blinkers" after a plow,
  2. A partial or consummate loss of intermittent wiper control.

To ready these two problems, yous'll demand a shop manual, a digital multimeter and perhaps some Torx bits.

Locating Your Vehicles Multifunction Switch

On most late-model vehicles, the MFS is located nether the plastic covers behind the steering bicycle. In that case, you tin practice this repair in about an hour and save the cost of an hour or two of shop time by doing it yourself. But some older vehicles require the removal of the airbag and steering wheel, and that'due south a job for a pro. Refer to a shop transmission to see where your MFS is located (you lot tin discover shop manuals with an online search).

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Project stride-past-stride (4)

Step 1

Have Off the Comprehend

Turn Signal Problems on the Multifunction Switch intermittent wipers

Always disconnect the negative battery terminal and look fifteen minutes for the airbag system to power down before starting work on the steering column. Then remove the screws and lift off the plastic covers.

Continue runway of the screws:

Remove the screws from the bottom half of the steering cavalcade cover and note the length, thread style and location of each spiral. They have to go back to the aforementioned place. Disengage the plastic snap clips and separate the ii halves of the steering column cover.

Footstep ii

All Near the Multifunction Switch

multifunction switch

Multifunction switch levers control headlights, flashers, wipers and intermittent windshield washers. The MFS is usually held in identify by hex-head or Torx screws. Remove them, pull out the switch and disconnect the electric connector. If the problem is a broken canceling mechanism, you must supplant the entire MFS (auto parts store or dealer).

If the problem is faulty intermittent wiper operation:

If the problem is faulty intermittent wiper operation, use a multimeter to check the connectors on the back of the MFS for resistance (ohms) readings for each setting on the intermittent wiper dial. Then compare them with the transmission.

If the resistance readings are off:

If the resistance readings are off, the shop manual will tell you to replace the MFS. Only you may be able to salvage big bucks past disassembling the MFS and cleaning the variable resistor contacts yourself. Search the Internet for "multifunction switch repair."

If neither technique works:

If you can't disassemble the MFS or the cleaning doesn't work, replace the entire unit and reinstall the covers.

Step 3

Pull the Switch

pull the Multifunction Switch intermittent wipers

Remove the switch retaining screws and pull out the switch. Disconnect the electrical connector.

Originally Published: February 27, 2019