Dodge Nitro. Manual - part 896

REMOVAL 

SWITCH-IGNITION 

Fig. 18: Identifying Ignition Switch Mounting Screw, Ignition Switch & Arm 
Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC 

1. Remove the steering column shrouds. 

2. Remove lock cylinder. See REMOVAL.  

3. Remove the multi-function switch.  

4. Disconnect the electrical connector at the rear of the ignition switch.  

5. Remove the ignition switch mounting screw (1). Use tamper proof torx bit to remove the screw. 

6. Pull the ignition switch (2) straight out to remove from the locking tabs.  

INSTALLATION 

SWITCH-IGNITION 

NOTE:

The ignition key must be in the key cylinder for cylinder removal. The key 
cylinder must be removed first before removing ignition switch.

NOTE:

Tilt arm (3) must be moved to allow removal of the switch.

 

2007 Dodge Nitro R/T 

2007 STEERING Steering System - Nitro

  

Fig. 19: Identifying Ignition Switch & Switch In ON Position 
Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC 

1. Before installing ignition switch (1), rotate the slot in the switch to the ON position (2). 

Fig. 20: Identifying Ignition Switch Mounting Screw, Ignition Switch & Arm 
Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC 

 

2007 Dodge Nitro R/T 

2007 STEERING Steering System - Nitro

  

2. Position the switch (2) to the column and install tamper proof screw (1). Tighten screw to 2 N.m (17 in. 

lbs.).  

3. Connect the electrical connector to rear of ignition switch. Make sure that locking tab is fully seated into 

wiring connector. 

4. Install the lock cylinder. See INSTALLATION.  

5. Test the operation of the lock cylinder for smooth rotating.  

6. Install the multi-function switch.  

7. Install steering column lower cover.  

KEY-IN IGNITION SWITCH 

DESCRIPTION 

SWITCH-KEY IN IGNITION 

The key-in ignition switch is integral to the ignition switch, which is mounted on the left side of the steering 
column, opposite the ignition cylinder. It closes a path to ground for the instrument cluster chime warning 
circuitry when the ignition key is inserted in the ignition lock cylinder and the driver door jamb switch is closed 
(driver door is open). The key-in ignition switch opens the ground path when the key is removed from the 
ignition cylinder. 

The key-in ignition switch cannot be repaired and, if faulty or damaged, the entire ignition switch must be 
replaced. See REMOVAL. 

DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING 

SWITCH-KEY-IN IGNITION 

For circuit descriptions and diagrams, Refer to the appropriate sections on the individual components. 

1. Disconnect and isolate the battery negative cable. Remove the steering column shrouds. Unplug the key-

in ignition switch wire harness connector from the ignition switch.  

2. Check for continuity between the key-in switch sense circuit and the left front door jamb switch sense 

NOTE:

Tilt arm (3) must be moved to allow installation of the switch.

NOTE:

The ignition key must be in the key cylinder for cylinder installation. The 
key cylinder must be aligned with the ignition switch for installation.

WARNING:

On vehicles equipped with airbags, refer to electrical - passive restraint 
systems before attempting any steering wheel, steering column, or 
instrument panel component diagnosis or service. Failure to take the 
proper precautions could result in accidental airbag deployment and 
possible personal injury.

 

2007 Dodge Nitro R/T 

2007 STEERING Steering System - Nitro

  

circuit terminals of the key-in ignition switch. There should be continuity with the key in the ignition 
cylinder, and no continuity with the key removed from the ignition cylinder. If OK, go to step 3. If not 
OK, replace the faulty ignition switch assembly.  

3. Check for continuity between the left front door jamb switch sense circuit cavity of the key-in ignition 

switch wire harness connector and a good ground. There should be continuity with the driver door open, 
and no continuity with the driver door closed. If OK, see the diagnosis for Instrument Cluster in this 
group. If not OK, repair the circuit to the driver door jamb switch as required.  

KEY CYLINDER 

REMOVAL 

CYLINDER-KEY 

Fig. 21: Removing Key Cylinder 
Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC 

The ignition key (1) must be in the key cylinder (2) for cylinder removal. The key cylinder must be removed 
first before removing ignition switch. 

1. If equipped with an automatic transmission, place shifter in PARK position.  

2. Remove the shroud covers.  

3. Remove the remote keyless entry (S.K.R.E.E.M) module.  

4. Remove the halo ring around the cylinder.  

5. Rotate key to RUN position.  

6. A release pin is located on the bottom of the key cylinder (5) with the access hole on the top of the lock 

cylinder housing (3).  

7. Position a small screwdriver or pin punch (4) into pin access hole (5).  

8. Push the pin punch (5) up while pulling key cylinder (2) from lock cylinder housing (3).  

INSTALLATION 

 

2007 Dodge Nitro R/T 

2007 STEERING Steering System - Nitro