2020 Jeep Wrangler Multifunction Switch Problems: How to Fix

How to Fix Multifunction Switch Issues

This guide addresses multifunction switch problems in your 2020 Jeep Wrangler, a common issue some owners have encountered. Symptoms can range from minor annoyances to significant functional impairments. As one owner shared, "Overall I’d say if you are on the fence, jump. I think these are very well made, the kit is thoughtfully put together and packaged, and the install instructions are easy enough to follow" — Sasquatchnu (source). This guide provides a step-by-step approach to diagnosing and potentially resolving these issues yourself.

Symptoms

Owners experiencing multifunction switch problems with their truck have reported a variety of symptoms. One of the most noticeable is erratic or non-functional turn signals. You might find that the turn signals only work intermittently or fail to activate at all. This can be a major safety concern, especially when driving in traffic or making turns on roads.

Another common symptom is issues with the windshield wipers. The multifunction switch controls the operation of the wipers, including speed and intermittent settings. If the switch is faulty, you might find that the wipers don't work at all, operate at the wrong speed, or fail to turn off. This can significantly impair visibility during rain or snow, increasing the risk of accidents.

Furthermore, you might experience problems with the high beam headlights. The multifunction switch typically controls the activation of the high beams, allowing you to switch between low and high beam settings as needed. If the switch is malfunctioning, the high beams might not turn on, or they could get stuck in the high beam position, potentially blinding oncoming drivers.

Finally, keep an eye out for any unusual behavior from other electrical components controlled by the multifunction switch. Depending on the specific configuration of your vehicle, the switch might also control features such as the fog lights or cruise control. If these features start acting erratically or stop working altogether, it could be a sign of a problem with the multifunction switch.

Most Likely Cause

Based on owner reports, the primary cause of multifunction switch issues in this vehicle is wear and tear or mechanical damage to the switch itself. Over time, the internal components of the switch can become worn or damaged, leading to a loss of functionality. This wear and tear can be accelerated by frequent use, exposure to extreme temperatures, or the ingress of dirt and moisture.

The multifunction switch is a complex electromechanical device with multiple contacts and moving parts. Each time you activate a function controlled by the switch, such as turning on the turn signals or activating the windshield wipers, these contacts and parts are subjected to mechanical stress and electrical current. Over time, this can cause the contacts to become corroded, the wires to fray, or the plastic components to crack or break.

In some cases, mechanical damage to the switch can also be caused by external factors. For example, if you accidentally bump or hit the switch with excessive force, it could damage the internal components. Similarly, if the switch is exposed to moisture or contaminants, such as spilled drinks or cleaning fluids, it could lead to corrosion and malfunction. Therefore, careful handling and preventative measures are key to longevity.

How to Diagnose

Diagnosing a faulty multifunction switch requires a systematic approach. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you pinpoint the problem:

1. Visual Inspection: Begin by visually inspecting the multifunction switch and the surrounding area for any signs of damage or corrosion. Look for cracks in the plastic housing, loose wires, or corroded connectors.

2. Functional Testing: Test each function controlled by the multifunction switch individually. Check the turn signals, windshield wipers, high beam headlights, and any other features controlled by the switch. Note any functions that are not working correctly or are exhibiting erratic behavior.

3. Continuity Testing: Use a multimeter to test the continuity of the electrical circuits within the multifunction switch. Refer to the wiring diagram for your vehicle to identify the correct terminals to test. Check for continuity between the terminals when the switch is in the appropriate position.

4. Voltage Testing: Use a multimeter to test the voltage at the terminals of the multifunction switch. Again, refer to the wiring diagram to identify the correct terminals to test. Check for the presence of voltage when the switch is in the appropriate position.

5. Scan for Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs): Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any diagnostic trouble codes related to the multifunction switch. While a faulty switch may not always trigger a DTC, it's worth checking to see if any codes are present.

6. Wiring Harness Inspection: Inspect the wiring harness connected to the multifunction switch for any signs of damage, such as frayed wires, loose connectors, or corrosion. Repair or replace any damaged wiring as needed.

7. Ground Connection Check: Ensure that the ground connection for the multifunction switch is clean and secure. A poor ground connection can cause a variety of electrical problems, including malfunctioning switch functions.

Tools Required:

• Multimeter
• OBD-II scanner
• Wiring diagram for your vehicle
• Basic hand tools (screwdrivers, pliers, etc.)

Step-by-Step Fix

Replacing a faulty multifunction switch is a relatively straightforward process that can be completed with basic hand tools. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Disconnect the Battery: Before beginning any electrical work on your vehicle, it's essential to disconnect the negative battery cable. This will prevent any accidental electrical shorts or shocks.

2. Remove the Steering Column Covers: Remove the plastic covers surrounding the steering column to gain access to the multifunction switch. These covers are typically held in place by screws or clips.

3. Disconnect the Electrical Connectors: Carefully disconnect the electrical connectors from the multifunction switch. Take note of the position of each connector before disconnecting them, as this will make it easier to reconnect them later.

4. Remove the Old Switch: Remove the screws or bolts that secure the multifunction switch to the steering column. Once the fasteners are removed, carefully pull the old switch out of its mounting location.

5. Install the New Switch: Install the new multifunction switch in the reverse order of removal. Align the switch with its mounting location and secure it with the screws or bolts.

6. Reconnect the Electrical Connectors: Reconnect the electrical connectors to the new multifunction switch. Make sure that each connector is securely attached and properly aligned.

7. Reinstall the Steering Column Covers: Reinstall the plastic covers surrounding the steering column. Secure the covers with the screws or clips.

8. Reconnect the Battery: Reconnect the negative battery cable to the battery.

9. Test the New Switch: Test all of the functions controlled by the new multifunction switch to ensure that they are working correctly. Check the turn signals, windshield wipers, high beam headlights, and any other features controlled by the switch. As one owner reported: "I think these are very well made, the kit is thoughtfully put together and packaged, and the install instructions are easy enough to follow" — Sasquatchnu (source).

10. Verify proper operation: Make sure all lights, signals, and wipers are working as expected before declaring the job complete.

Parts and Tools Needed

• New multifunction switch (Check parts store for compatibility with the 2020 Jeep Wrangler)
• Screwdrivers
• Pliers
• Socket set
• Wiring diagram (optional but recommended)
• Multimeter (for advanced diagnosis)

Real Owner Costs

The cost of replacing a multifunction switch can vary depending on whether you choose to do it yourself or have a professional mechanic do it for you. Here's a breakdown of the potential costs:

DIY Repair:

• New multifunction switch: $50 - $150 (depending on brand and quality)
• Tools (if needed): $0 - $50 (assuming you already have basic hand tools)
• Total cost: $50 - $200

Professional Repair:

• New multifunction switch: $50 - $150
• Labor cost: $100 - $300 (depending on the shop's hourly rate)
• Diagnostic fee (if applicable): $50 - $100
• Total cost: $200 - $550

As LeonardoDiPugrio (source) mentioned when dealing with another repair, "Paid about $11 for the 1/2” PolyPro insulation board, $15 for the fabric, $18 for the high-temp Velcro." When comparing DIY versus professional repair, the cost savings from doing it yourself can be significant.

Prevention

While multifunction switch failure can occur regardless of care, here are some preventative measures you can take:

• Avoid Excessive Force: Be gentle when operating the multifunction switch. Avoid using excessive force, as this can damage the internal components.
• Keep It Clean: Keep the area around the multifunction switch clean and free of debris. Dust, dirt, and moisture can all contribute to switch failure.
• Regular Inspection: Inspect the multifunction switch regularly for any signs of wear or damage. If you notice any problems, address them promptly before they worsen.
• Proper Lubrication: Apply a small amount of dielectric grease to the electrical connectors of the multifunction switch. This will help prevent corrosion and ensure a good electrical connection.
• Avoid Spills: Be careful not to spill any liquids on or around the multifunction switch. Liquids can seep into the switch and cause corrosion or electrical shorts. As kuhnboy (source) noted, "I understand it’s easier to get chips from following closely as well, as I frequent dirt roads often." Keeping the switch clean can prevent damage.

What Owners Say

Real experiences from JEEP owners:

Owner Experiences

"Overall I’d say if you are on the fence, jump. I think these are very well made, the kit is thoughtfully put together and packaged, and the install instructions are easy enough to follow." — Sasquatchnu (source)

"I think these are very well made, the kit is thoughtfully put together and packaged, and the install instructions are easy enough to follow. I often weigh some of these add ons for discretionary items such as this as - how much would it cost me to replicate." — Sasquatchnu (source)

"Anyone else use these Chinese head units? Wondering if I can change the boot screen to an OEM jeep logo and if so how to do it." — scottfreetime (source)

Pro Tips from Owners

💡 "Be aware the vehicle will handle differently in 4x4 vs 2wd. My advice: go to an empty parking lot covered in snow, and practice driving at slow speeds in both 2wd and 4Hi." — NumbersInUsername (source)

💡 "My advice: go to an empty parking lot covered in snow, and practice driving at slow speeds in both 2wd and 4Hi. Get a feel for it." — NumbersInUsername (source)

Real Repair Costs

"Luckily you can only see the Friends fabric while in the Jeep. Paid about $11 for the 1/2” PolyPro insulation board, $15 for the fabric, $18 for the high-temp Velcro." — LeonardoDiPugrio (source)

"Paid about $11 for the 1/2” PolyPro insulation board, $15 for the fabric, $18 for the high-temp Velcro." — LeonardoDiPugrio (source)

FAQ

Q: How long does it take to fix a multifunction switch issue?

A: If you're doing it yourself, expect the repair to take between 1 to 3 hours, depending on your mechanical experience. A professional mechanic can typically complete the job in 1 to 2 hours.

Q: Can I drive with a faulty multifunction switch?

A: It's generally not recommended to drive with a faulty multifunction switch, especially if it affects your turn signals or windshield wipers. These are critical safety features, and driving without them can increase your risk of an accident.

Q: Is this a common issue on the 2020 Jeep Wrangler?

A: While not every 2020 Jeep Wrangler owner experiences multifunction switch problems, it is a known issue that some owners have encountered. The frequency of the problem can vary depending on factors such as driving conditions, maintenance habits, and component quality.

Q: DIY vs mechanic - what's recommended?

A: If you have experience with basic automotive repairs and are comfortable working with electrical components, replacing the multifunction switch yourself can save you money on labor costs. However, if you're not confident in your abilities, it's best to have a professional mechanic do the job. A mechanic will have the tools and expertise to diagnose the problem accurately and complete the repair safely and effectively. Also, if it requires specialized programming (unlikely but possible), a mechanic has the equipment to do so.