How to a Change Windshield Wiper Switch Out on a 2000 Ford Escort ZX2

Some drivers take for granted the small components in their vehicle that make driving much more pleasant. One is the windshield wiper switch. On the 2000 Escort ZX2, the wiper switch has five different positions, and each makes the wiper-and-washer system do different things by increasing and decreasing amps flowing to the components or changing which component is getting electricity. When this switch fails, it can make for a dangerous drive should you get caught in a rain storm. There is no reason to put off installing a new switch -- it is a straightforward task.

Instructions

1

Open the hood and loosen the pinch bolt on the end of the negative (-) battery cable the black cable with a combination wrench. Pull upward on the cable end to remove it from the battery terminal. Position the negative battery cable aside to prevent it from accidentally reconnecting.

2

Wait one minute as the air bag system backup power depletes.

3

Remove the screws securing the two halves of the steering column trim together, using a Phillips screwdriver. Pull the two halves apart to disengage their retaining clips and set them aside.

4

Trace the windshield wiper control stalk toward the steering column until you reach the electrical component at the end of it; this is the windshield wiper switch. Remove the screws securing the wiper switch to the steering column using a Phillips screwdriver, and pull it away from the column just enough to access its wiring.

5

Press and hold the unlocking button on the wiring harness and unplug the wiring harness.

6

Plug the wiring harness into the new wiper switch and position the wiper switch on the steering column, aligning the screw holes on the switch with those on the steering column. Tighten the screws with a Phillips screwdriver.

7

Set the top half of the steering column trim on the steering column and line up the clips on the bottom half of the steering column trim with the holes in the upper half. Press the two halves together until they click into place. Tighten the steering column trim screws with a Phillips screwdriver.

8

Reconnect the negative battery cable end to the negative (-) battery terminal. Tighten the cable ends pinch bolt to 6 foot-pounds with a torque wrench and socket.