Well, my '97 has started doing the fast clicking-no indicator light trick and only occasionally responds to the lane change position. From what I read here the solution is to replace the switch/stalk assembly (or take it apart and clean out the old grease). Especially since I also have the annoying window washer only works occasionally feature.

My question is twofold;

first - can the switch be replaced without removing the steering wheel. Several posts mention the possibility but don't seem to answer the question. If it is easy enough to get to it might be worth taking it out and cleaning out the grease.

second - I had the same window washer problem on my '93 f150. How can ford manage to not fix such a screwup over the course of 4 years and a complete redesign?

 

Yes you can remove the switch assembly without removing the wheel. Remove the upper and lower column covers and then the two torx screws holding the switch on the column.