Questions and Answers
Escort Multi-Function Switch
Q. I have a 1993 Ford Escort GT. The dealer tells me needs a new column switch which is a very expensive part. I am looking into getting a used part and installing it myself. The car has cruise control and interval wipers. Is all this on the same switch with the lights? Can you give me any pointers on how to change the part?
Thanks,
DaveA. Okay Dave, to change that switch you will need a steering wheel puller. Since they are not cheap you might be better off having it done for you. But if you can borrow one or decide to buy one, here's what you do:
Take the cover off the steering wheel, some just pop off and some have screws going in from the underside of the steering wheel. With the cover off, remove the large nut holding the steering wheel on. Before you use the puller, mark the steering wheel to the steering shaft so you can put the steering back on exactly the same way it was. Install the puller and take the steering wheel off.
It's easy from here, just take out the four screws holding the steering column lower cover, then remove lower cover. Then remove the steering column upper cover, disconnect the three multi-function switch electrical connectors. Remove the multi-function switch retaining screw, then pull the electrical connectors from retaining brackets and remove switch.
Just reverse everything to put the new one in. It'll probably take a good hour to an hour and a half to do it.
There are many different switches depending on if you have cruise control and intermittent windshield wipers. When you go to get the replacement, the parts guy will ask you what he needs to know to get you the right one. If possible, take the car with you so he can look at it and match you up the right one.
Information provided courtesy of ALLDATA
