Two problems related to turn signal switch have been reported for the 1997 Ford Explorer. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Windshield washer comes on intermittently while driving. Vehicle taken to dealer twice, multi function switch was replaced the first time. It did not remedy the problem. Second time dealer could not find cause. The consumer stated that the vehicle was at the dealer for one day in cold weather outside, problem was replicated and they found relays overheating and sticking caused by shorted malfunction switch on prior repair and they replaced both relays.
Multi-purpose directional switch, does not operate the windsheild wipers properly, however, the signals work. Consumer has replaced the switch once before, and the problem has reoccurred. Dealer has been contacted.