Smoke from Steering Column

Reply Subscribe

Thread Tools

Search this Thread

Mar 15, 2013 | 07:40 AM

Sunshine8

Thread Starter

New User

Joined: Mar 2013

Posts: 1

Likes: 0

Smoke from Steering Column

Within the last couple of weeks, periodically I see small amount of smoke coming from the steering column, from the hazard switch. It only lasts a couple of seconds. I've owned my 99 Ranger for about 7 years now, and since I got it, the dome light has never worked, even when installing new fuses. I'm suspicious it's the multi-function switch but not sure. Before I take my baby in to the shop, I'd like to see if anyone else knows what this means. I'm no mechanic, I just read alot, and from what I've read, this seems to be the issue. Any suggestions out there?

Mar 15, 2013 | 03:33 PM

Rockledge

Post Fiend

Joined: Jan 2003

Posts: 9,748

Likes: 16

From: Connecticut

Ford had some trouble with the MFS on some '99 Rangers. Check out: https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/2...on-switch.html

Mar 15, 2013 | 11:18 PM

wp120470

Posting Guru

Joined: Feb 2011

Posts: 1,032

Likes: 0

From: Smithfield N.C.

Pull the piece of plastic off the top and bottom of the column. Follow the two wires going to the O/D button. It is a common problem that the wires will wear and cause a short. If this is your problem it is a simple fix with some electrical tape to insulate it. If your truck is and automatic with overdrive Check this problem before any other.

Mar 16, 2013 | 10:49 AM

reddog99

Laughing Gas

Joined: Aug 2003

Posts: 1,175

Likes: 9

From: So. Cal.

FWIW, I had trouble with the OD button on my 2004, but it never smoked, it just quit working.

I'd be wary of driving any vehicle where electrical components are smoking. The whole truck could have a fire or melt-down, then what would you do? Do you have a plan for what to do if the smoke doesn't quit after "a couple of seconds"? Best get this fixed, sooner rather than later!