Turn Signal & Wiper Switch Repair or Replacement

DIY on how to repair or replace the turn signal or wiper switch on a Toyota Camry, Solara or Lexus ES300.

Some may experience intermittent operation of the turn signals or windshield wipers after many miles. Symptoms include the turn signal not functioning at all on one or both sides, or the switch having to be in a certain spot to work, despite the bulbs and relays checking out okay. This is usually due to worn contacts in the turn signal or wiper switch.

The steering wheel and airbag DO NOT have to be removed to access these switches. Three screws are removed from the trim surrounding the steering wheel allowing the covers to be popped off.

Two screws hold each the turn signal and wiper switch into their housings, and the electrical connector can be disconnected to remove the switch from the car.

Once open, the switch contacts can be cleaned with electrical contact cleaner and sandpaper to allow for proper contact. If the contacts are worn, warm the contact pad with a soldering iron and drop a blob of solder into the copper, to build up the area.

The turn signal switch can also be upgraded to one with a fog-light ring if equipping a vehicle with factory wired fogs.

The wiper switch can also be replaced with one that has a one-touch mist function, and should be electrically compatible with the car (plug and play).