Replacement of the dimmer switch in your Jeep Cherokee involves replacing the combination switch that includes the turn signals and emergency flashers. The switch is located inside the steering column trim and does require removal of some trim pieces in the Jeep. The switch is mounted to the left side of the column, and along with the switch, you will need to remove the water shield that protects the switch. The shield will be reused on the new switch.
Open the hood of your Jeep and remove the negative battery cable from the battery. Use a wrench to remove the battery terminal retaining bolt then lift the cable off the battery. Set it aside, making sure it cannot fall back against the terminal while you are working.
Remove the knee blocker panel or lower dash panel from your Jeep. There are two screws that secure it to the dash just below the instrument panel. Remove the screws with a Phillips head screwdriver and pull slightly out on the panel then release the retaining tabs on the lower edge of the panel. Remove the panel from the Jeep.
Locate and remove the three screws that secure the upper column trim to the lower column trim. The screws are accessed from the bottom of the steering column and can be removed with a Phillips head screwdriver. Remove the two trim panels once the screws are out.
Tilt the steering column down to the lowest position. This will allow greater access to the components inside the column.
Locate the three screws that secure the water shield and combination switch to the steering column. Remove the screws with a Phillips head screwdriver and lift the switch and water shield, as a unit, high enough to access the electrical connectors under it. There are two plugs that need to be released from the switch before it can come out of the Jeep.
Depress the locking tab on the connector and pull it out of the switch. Repeat this for the second connector and then lift the switch out of the steering column. Carefully slide the water shield off the switch arm and install the shield on the new switch.
Lower the new switch into the column and plug the two electrical connectors in until you feel them click, indicating they are locked in. Position the switch so the holes in the water shield align with the screws on the column and insert the three mounting screws. Tighten the screws with a Phillips head screwdriver.
Install the upper and lower column trim pieces and insert the three retaining screws from the bottom of the column. Tighten the screws with a Phillips head screwdriver to secure the trim panels.
Install the knee blocker panel into the retaining tabs at the bottom of the panel. Lean the panel forward and align the mounting holes with the holes on the dash. Insert the two mounting screws and tighten them with a Phillips head screwdriver.
Reinstall the negative battery cable onto the battery and tighten the retaining bolt with a wrench. Test the switch to be sure it is functioning properly.
