Dodge Ram 2002-2008: How to Replace Ignition Switch
Is your Dodge Ram failing to start or are its electrical components acting erratically? Your problem may be less expensive to fix than you think. Read on for the DIY guide on how to replace your truck's ignition switch.
This article applies to the Dodge Ram 3rd Generation (2002-2008).
An ignition switch acts like a gate for the battery to release and distribute power to every component in your truck, such as the air conditioning blower and (more importantly) the starter. These switches have an unfortunate reputation as units that frequently fail. When they do fail, the electrical current will not reach some or all of the truck's components, which can cause the radio to stop working, the blower motor to stop functioning, and the engine to quit starting. Luckily, replacing the ignition switch in your Dodge Ram is a relatively simple process.
Materials Needed
- T20 Torx screwdriver
- T25 Torx screwdriver
Step 1 – Disconnect the battery
To help decrease the chances of an accidental airbag deployment, disconnect the negative battery cable (black) and allow the car to sit for 30 minutes.
Step 2 – Remove the steering column panels
- Use a T20 Torx screwdriver to remove the two screws on the bottom side of the steering column cover.
- Use the same screwdriver to remove one screw near the tilt lever.
- Remove the tilt lever handle by pulling it in a downwards motion.
- Then remove the covers.
Figure 2. Location of the two T20 Torx screws. 
Figure 3. Location the tilt lever T20 Torx screw. 
Figure 4. Remove the steering wheel tilt lever cover. 
Figure 5. Remove the steering column covers.
Step 3 – Remove the ignition switch
The ignition switch is held in place by two Torx screws and mounted behind the tilt lever mechanism.
- Use a T25 Torx screwdriver to remove one screw underneath the tilt lever mechanism.
- Then, use the T20 screwdriver to remove one screw underneath the ignition switch.
- Pull back on the red tab of the rear ignition switch connector, and unplug it from the dash wire harness.
- Then pull back on the tab of the front switch connector, and unplug it to release the ignition switch from the lock cylinder.
Figure 7. Unplug the ignition switch rear-wire harness connector. 
Figure 8. Damaged ignition switch.
Pro Tip
To get a good idea of why an ignition switch might stop functioning, take a look at Figure 8. Once one or more of the contact points are burnt, the switch will not be able to transmit power through the system.
Step 4 – Install the new ignition switch
Install the new switch in reverse order to removal of the old one.
- Plug in both connectors to the switch and make sure the tabs are secure.
- Install and tighten the T25 as well as T20 Torx screws, and reconnect the tilt wheel mechanism.
- Mount the steering trim panels and tighten them in place.
- Slide on the tilt wheel lever cover, and you are done!
Related Discussion and Video
- Help! Ignition Switch Broke. - DodgeForum.com
- 2003 Dodge Ram Intermittent A/C Blower Replace Ignition Switch - YouTube.com
