Where is the windshield wipers switch located and how do you fix it on a Ford Taurus - Mercury Sable?

Answer 1

Answer
The switch is part of the Multi-Function switch on the turn signal arm.


See below for step-by-step procedures


I once had a wiper problem with my 1992 Taurus and it turned out to be the wiper control module. There is a web site that tells you how to check the entire wiper system from the fuse block through the module, steering column switch and motor using a multimeter. I was able to trace my problem down and repair it using the instructions from this web page; I'm looking for it now but can't locate it.
The control module is a troublesome item on these cars though you may think it is the switch on the column lever. The module is located under the dash, close to the center and can be removed by simply sliding it from it's bracket and unplugging it from the wiring harness. It is a black plastic box about 4" X 4" and about 3" thick that contains mechanical relays and will make audible clicks when moving the wiper switch through it's settings. These modules were manufactured in Brazil (I believe) and many developed intermittent broken contacts due to what is called "cold solder joints". You can actually repair these modules rather than spend $65 to replace the part. Simply look at the circuit board for dark areas where there should be smooth solder joints and re-solder them.
This was invaluable information for me as I had tried a new motor and that didn't fix the problem. In checking the wiper module, which I found on the other side of my dashboard (in a F150 pickup), I immediately saw the cold solder joints. I reinstalled the module, but much to my dismay the wipers still didn't work. It turned out that the motor WAS bad and probably the reason the cold solder joint showed up (drawing more than normal current). Thanks to the guys above! - Pete

Multi-function switch

• Best to disconnect the negative battery cable for this project - many of the wires involved are 'hot' all the time.
  
  
• remove the lower column dash-cover from under the steering wheel
  
  
• remove the bottom of the column cover - a few screws hold it to the bottom-side of the upper column cover
  
  
• Upper Cover - you may be able to twist the upper cover away enough to get at the multi-function switch - otherwise, it too will have to come off.
  
  This will require removing the ignition key cylinder (See "Related Questions" below)
  
  
• unplug the wiring harness connections
  
  
• remove the 2 torx mounting screws and remove the old switch.
  
  
• mount the new switch and plug the wire harnesses back in ( they only fit where they are supposed to )

Removing the ignition key cylinder
If you have the key and can turn the cylinder

• Turn the ignition to the run position
  
• Push a long 1/8" diameter pin (drill bit?) up into a hole located on the underside of the steering column in the lock cylinder area.
• • Up in the hole there is a little release pin you are trying to depress to allow easy removal of the cylinder.
    
  • If you have trouble locating the hole, remove the lower steering column shroud.
    
• Once that pin is pressed the cylinder should pull out fairly easy.

Replacing a Not-Working Lock Cylinder

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
2. Remove the upper and lower steering column covers.
3. Insert a 0.125 drill bit in the hole at the top of the cylinder housing and drill out the retaining pin.
   NOTE Be careful! Don't drill anything but the pin hole straight in
   
4. Remove the lock cylinder
5. Clean out all the metal shavings
   

To Install:

1. Turn the new lock cylinder to accessory position
2. Press and hold the retainer pin in, insert the lock cylinder into the housing.
   Test it out and put everything back together - don't forget the battery cable too.
   
3. Turn the key to the OFF position the release the retaining pin and lock it in

you have 3 screw in the lower plastic steering wheel cover - star head screws. Undo the screws and snap the upper case off. There are 2 torx screws holding the switch to the steering column. Undo the screws and pop off the 2 wire harnesses. Should take less than 10 minutes. switches can be found at Napa Auto - approx $87 plus tax. Good luck