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Autopapyrus · Infiniti EX37 (1st generation)
https://autopapyrus.com/guides/infiniti/ex37/replacing-the-headlight-and-wiper-column-switches/
Compiled automatically from service literature and owner experience. Specs are for the typical configuration — check them against your exact car before you start.

Infiniti EX37 (1st generation): Replacing the Headlight and Wiper Column Switches

The headlight and wiper switches are mounted on the steering column under the clockspring. To replace them, you need to remove the airbag and the steering wheel, then disconnect the clockspring and reinstall it in the same position. This job involves the SRS (airbag system), so the key points are to disconnect the battery, wait out the required time, and not rotate the clockspring away from its center position. The exact sequence and torque values for this model are only partly documented in public sources, so below is the general procedure for the Nissan/Infiniti FM platform, with ranges.

Difficulty: Medium Time: 1.5-2.5 hours Steps: 13 Tools: Socket set and ratchet, Phillips and flat-blade screwdrivers, Torx set (including tamper-resistant bits with a pin hole), plastic trim removal tools, insulated tools, masking tape and marker, multimeter (optional)

Part

  • 🔩 Turn signal/headlight combination switch and wiper/washer switch. On this generation they usually come as separate units on a common base. The clockspring (spiral cable with airbag contacts) stays the same and is reinstalled. I am not listing OE numbers to avoid giving a wrong one. Match the parts by VIN and trim level (with and without adaptive lighting)

Step by step

13 steps
  1. Park the car on a level surface with the wheels pointing straight ahead. The steering wheel must be exactly centered. Use tape to mark the position of the steering wheel relative to the column.
  2. Turn the ignition off and disconnect the negative battery terminal. Wait at least 3-5 minutes so the SRS capacitors can discharge. Do not touch the airbag connectors until this time has passed.
  3. Remove the driver airbag. It is usually held by screws on the sides or underneath the steering wheel hub. Carefully disconnect the airbag and horn connectors. Place the module face up, away from you.
  4. Disconnect the steering wheel switch connectors (audio, cruise control, phone), if equipped. They plug into the clockspring or the back of the steering wheel.
  5. Before loosening the nut, mark the position of the steering wheel on the shaft with paint or a marker. Remove the center steering wheel nut and carefully pull the wheel off the splines. If it is tight, rock it toward you. Do not hit it. Do not rotate the shaft: the clockspring must stay in its center position.
  6. Remove the lower and upper plastic steering column covers (screws underneath, plus clips). If needed, lower the column with the tilt adjustment to get access.
  7. Lock the clockspring to keep it from rotating. Many clocksprings have a locking pin or a center mark. If there is no lock, tape it so the ring cannot turn. Then disconnect its connectors and remove the clockspring from the column. It is held by clips or screws. Do not rotate it or pull on the ribbon.
  8. Disconnect the column switch connectors and remove the screws holding their assembly to the column. Remove the old switches. If they are separate units, release the one you need and install the new one. If the assembly is one piece, replace it as a whole.
  9. Install the new switches and tighten the fasteners snugly, without overtightening the plastic. Connect the connectors.
  10. Reinstall the clockspring in its center position, using the marks. Set the steering wheel in the straight-ahead position, using the marks, and tighten the center nut. Torque per the service manual, roughly in the range of 30-50 N·m (22-37 lb-ft). Verify the value in the manufacturer's documentation for your trim. Connect the steering wheel switch and horn connectors.
  11. Connect the airbag connector and install the module. Tighten the fasteners without overtightening.
  12. Install the column covers. Reconnect the battery. Turn the ignition on and check the following: the SRS light should go out after its self-test, and the low beams, high beams, turn signals, wipers on all speeds, washer, horn and steering wheel buttons should all work. If needed, reset the clock and radio presets.
  13. Check that the steering wheel sits straight when driving straight, and that nothing binds when turning to full lock in both directions and the clockspring is not stretched.

Common mistakes and warnings

  • This job involves the airbag system. Mistakes in handling (rotating the clockspring away from center, connecting a connector incorrectly, working without the battery disconnected) can cause the airbag to deploy, lead to injury, and leave the SRS inoperative in a crash. If you have no experience working with SRS, it is better to have a repair shop do the job. If the SRS light stays on after reassembly, treat it as a fault and have the system diagnosed. Do not drive with a faulty airbag. If the clockspring was not centered, the ribbon may break and the clockspring may need to be replaced.