After I make my turn, my signal just wont go off

Tiny
ANGELA53
  • MEMBER
  • 1998 FORD EXPLORER
  • 6 CYL
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 109,000 MILES
When I turn my turn signal on to turn either right or left it works fine but my problem is after I make my turn, my signal just wont go off like it should. This happens weather I make a right or a left turn. I also just found a small spring on the floor just under my steering colum, could this be from my turn signal and the reason as to why it doesnt shut off? I would like to just fix this myself rather than spending a ton of money at the shop. What do I need to do to fix this problem?
Sunday, November 22nd, 2009 AT 4:13 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
RICKMAR
  • MECHANIC
  • 170 POSTS
Hi Angela53;
Your Multi Function Switch (MFS) needs to be replaced.
The turn signal, high beams, windshield wiper, wiper speed selection and windshield washer are all controlled with the arm of this switch.

It is located inside a "black housing" around your steering column. Your shift lever and adjustable steering wheel lever are also within the housing. Inside the housing your Multi Function Switch looks like this:


https://www.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/433905_Multifunction_Switch_1.jpg



To access the multi-function switch for removal and replacement you need to remove the black housing with a small "phillips head" screwdriver. You will need a special tool called a "Torx" to remove the hold down screws (1) and you will need to disconnect two small wiring harnesses (2) and the Multi function switch itself (3).

The replacement Multi Function Switch will cost an arm and a leg from a dealership. "Ebay" or "used" auto parts from "Junk or Auto Salvage" yards are the cheapest way out for the switch. If you want to do the repair yourself I can give you a step by step procedure if you want. Just let me know and I will get it right to you.

Rick
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Wednesday, November 25th, 2009 AT 10:54 PM
Tiny
ANGELA53
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Rick,
I would love to fix this myself I dont want to pay someone to do something I can do myself. Anything that you have to help me do this I would be very appricative of. Thanks for your help
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Thursday, November 26th, 2009 AT 12:30 PM
Tiny
RICKMAR
  • MECHANIC
  • 170 POSTS
Hi Angela53;
O.K. Great, I do not blame you for not wanting to pay someone to do something you can do yourself.
You need to have a Torx (T-30 or T-20) possibly a T-25 and a small Phillips head screwdriver.

If you have a Junk or Salvage yard near you and they allow you to remove the part yourself, you can save even more. Another thing is that you can practice on the vehicle you are removing the part from and then you will be a pro at removing and installing these.

Once springs and stuff start falling out, the
multi-function switch is really a little beyond repair ...
Here are the step by step instructions with sketches.
(It is really not that bad).... Here we go.

If equipped, twist the tilt wheel handle and shank counterclockwise and remove.
Shank is indicated by the arrow.


https://www.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/433905_pivot_lever_1.jpg



Remove the upper and lower steering column shrouds. - (You will need a small phillips head screwdriver).
Remove the three screws (1)
Remove the upper and lower steering column shrouds (2)


https://www.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/433905_shroud_1.jpg



To remove the multi-function switch.
(You will need a "Torx" ) T-30 or T-20 possibly a T-25, "It's been a while".
which looks like this


https://www.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/433905_Torx_2.gif



All you need is a basic low price one
You can get a good 10 pc. set for $11.00 here:
http://www.amazon.com/Lisle-26000-Tamper-Resistant-Torx/dp/B0002NYBVE

Finally, removing the Multi - Function Switch
Remove the two screws (1)
Disconnect the two electrical connectors. (2)
Remove the multi-function switch (3)


https://www.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/433905_Multifunction_Switch_2.jpg



To install, reverse the removal procedure.
Torque Torx head bolts to (18 - 26 Lb/in)
Just snug that's all.


https://www.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/433905_MFS_Install_1.jpg



I hope this information helped.
If you have any problems or need any more help, just let me know by replying to this posting or Private Message me.

I hope this information helped you out.
Good Luck;
Rick
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Thursday, November 26th, 2009 AT 5:01 PM

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