
I next suspected it might be the multi-switch on the steering wheel column. NAPA and the other local stores all wanted $400 for just the switch (!), so this wasn't high on my priority list to fix. I found a new unit on EBAY for $65, so thought I'd give it a try. Plus, my wife said this is all she wanted for her birthday, so there was my motivation.

However, after some thought and a little NorthWest improvisation, my son and I were able to complete the job in ~1.5 hours and with just the tools shown here. Get ready... here we go!

First, use the Torx wrench and take the 2 bottom screws out of the bottom shield on the steering column. Nice and easy, right?


Next, you need to get the 2 Torx screws out that hold the multi-switch to the column. The one on the top is tough to get at. My wrench wouldn't reach, but I was able to hold a smaller socket in a vice-grip and work the screw out. Man, its getting tough now...

As hokey as this seems, it was well worth not having to remove the airbad and steering wheel!

The wiring harness was the toughest part of this job. It is one bugger of a harness, and tough to get at with my big fat hands.
Next, there is a bolt in the center of the connector on the wire-side - remove this dude and it all comes apart easier...
Finally, remove the old switch and install the new one, in reverse order.
The whole thing went pretty smoothly... and it was fun with my son. The bummer? IT DIDN"T FIX THE PROBLEM!!! Arrg! The wipers are still messed up, and the light still is not reaching the taillight. Dang!
At least I didn't sink $400 into this and realize it wasn't the problem... and a dealer or auto shop would have done the same replacement, too. So... on to the next debug...