Bam240sx
New Member
- Joined
- May 24, 2019
- Messages
- 8
- Reaction score
- 1
- Location
- Apollo
- City, State
- Pittsburgh
- Year, Model & Trim Level
- Blurple 2013 Explorer XLT
2011-2015 Wiper switch replacement how-to
This is a wiper switch how to since my wipers have the dreaded “won’t turn off” issue. I will update if this does not resolve the issue. This is an easy fix, the most annoying part are the oddball sizes of tools such as the socket and torx size required.
Replacement part for my 2013 Explorer:
Motorcraft SW-7688 Switch Assembly
I ordered from amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071NPZNDN/?tag=serious-20
Required tools:
Plastic trim removal tool or screwdriver
7 mm socket
T10 Torx
Dielectric grease (maybe)
Harbor freight has a great security bit kit for Under 10 bucks that has a ton of great bits like the T10 torx needed, I keep it in the car:
Security Bit Set with Case, 100 Pc.
On to the procedure:
This is a wiper switch how to since my wipers have the dreaded “won’t turn off” issue. I will update if this does not resolve the issue. This is an easy fix, the most annoying part are the oddball sizes of tools such as the socket and torx size required.
Replacement part for my 2013 Explorer:
Motorcraft SW-7688 Switch Assembly
I ordered from amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071NPZNDN/?tag=serious-20
Required tools:
Plastic trim removal tool or screwdriver
7 mm socket
T10 Torx
Dielectric grease (maybe)
Harbor freight has a great security bit kit for Under 10 bucks that has a ton of great bits like the T10 torx needed, I keep it in the car:
Security Bit Set with Case, 100 Pc.
On to the procedure:
- Start your Explorer and turn the wheel clockwise 90° from center
- Pry up top cover of steering column using the three tabs facing you and also the sides
- Remove the three 7mm screws holding the bottom cover on. This will need to be removed to access the bottom torx screw of the wiper switch. The black screw was furthest to the back in my case. The cover should fall right off as long as you have the column lock lever in the locked position.
- Remove the two T10 torx screws securing the wiper switch. Once removed press the tabs as shown with the vertical arrows and then slide the switch to your right. If it sticks, use the trim tool or screwdriver and pry against the steering wheel.
- Once removed you will notice the dielectric grease on the both the module connection and also the switch pins. I took the grease off the old switch and placed on the new one. If yours is gone I would add more dielectric grease in moderation.
- Reverse these steps to install the new switch.