Multifunction switch...mushy

[FlipTrac_511]

Lately my multifunction switch (signalling & wipers) has not been 'snapping' into the up or down position. Rather, it has become mushy and must be lightly jerked into position. The problem disappears after I play with the steering column adjustment, but the problem soon returns after turning the wheel (usually after going around a corner). What gives?

 

[Todd Z]

Sounds like the switch in the colum is wearing out....

Todd Z

 

[FlipTrac_511]

Could it also be wires or a harness being pinched?

 

[Richard L]

The stalk is held in place by one or more sscrew, which has probably worked loose. I had a similar problem on a GM vehicle.



...Rich

 

[Teddy GreeneII]

Flip, an 04? You're still under arent ya, I rememeber your 15k not too long ago. Im dreading something like that right now after all the mods, I know it wont effect what they're fixin but im hearing the horror stories of the ticket taker types (hey,) that write down everything to put down for the record. gotta find a cool ford guy somewhere at one of the dealerships. My column gets a little moody when I put the wheel all the way down, wonder if this kind of thing is normal with the "switches"

 

[FlipTrac_511]

Teddy, I've taken my ST to two different dealerships three to four times now and neither of them made mention either verbally or on paperwork, the mods I have installed. One of them did record that I had black walled my tires, but that's it.



Rich, FYI the stalk is not limp. It still has the springy feel to it. The only thing wrong is when it is supposed to 'snap' into either the up or down position, it gives a "mushy click" into the detente (if that makes any sense).

 

[Mike Wilson]

Flip', yes it does make sense. Had this happen on two fords and two gm vehicles.

We already have a problem with our tracs for sensitive steering columns

related to electrical issues. This may now just be another problem that is

showing up. All vehicles lately have what is referred to as a detent cam in

the multi-function, or "smart" switch. A cheap plastic cam spring is what gives

you your "feel" of the switch snapping into position. These cheap plastic cam

springs get "memory" after a while, and get weak. This can give you the symptoms

that you described.

 

[FlipTrac_511]

Hopefully this is harmless and there aren't any wires being pinched or slowly chaffed. The multifunction switch worked flawlessly when I dropped it off at the dealership and they could not duplicate it therefore it was not serviced. If it gets worse I'll have them look at it, or if beyond warranty, I'll do work myself.