Subaru Dash Switch Type 5

Q&A

How do I know if this will fit my vehicle?
The best way to know for sure is to follow our vehicle fitment guide on the home page (Click Subaru > Your model > Year). All images are shot of misc panels that came on different models/years of Subaru, there is no way to capture all the different panel configurations, typically if a switch is shown in a top row that will be consistent across all variations of the switch panel plates. If you do have difficulty verifying its the correct switch feel free to reach out.

How does this mount to my vehicle?
Most our switches are designed to clip into the existing lock mechanism. The switches are designed to be a snug fit so there is no wiggle or play, when installing make sure you have it aligned correctly to the pocket.

Type 1 is the only switch that requires modifications due to design limitations. There is a template provided to cut out the plastic (use a razor blade to cut this out) and then once secured into the pocket a small screw (provided) is drilled in from either side to secure to the existing plastic.

How do I remove the old switch or blank for install?
Easy! You can use a trim removal tool or small flat head screw driver to get under the clip and allow the lock to unclip. Do this for top and bottom to completely remove the existing switch or blank.

What harnesses is this compatible with?
Our switches are considered universal in that they offer multiple wiring options. The default harness will be one that has 3 wires running to its existing switch, these will be Power, Ground and control. Please be aware colors are not consistent across different brands for power and control so please be sure to test the function works prior to final termination. Our switch can be configured to work with these 3 wires by the following: White on the pigtail goes to Power, Black on the pigtail goes to Ground, Blue/Red wired together goes the the Control cable. This configuration makes it so the LED ring will only be on when the device is on.

My LED Ring doesn’t turn off!
This is a simple fix! When this happens it means the Power and Control are backwards, simply switch the wires you ran to the White on the pigtail with the wire you ran to the Red/Blue on the pigtail.

What if I don’t want to splice and terminate wires?
Don’t worry we got you covered, we offer a prewired pigtail option to simplify the install process. This harness is fit with 3 spade connectors, similar to what came on the back of the generic switch your harness had, simply remove the old switch, identify the wire types and connect! https://smkfabrication.com/product/pre-terminated-pigtail/

Do I need a wire harness and is a relay necessary?
A wire harness isn’t necessary as many can be easily made at home if you have basic wiring skills. A relay is suggested for anything that pulls mild to significant power. Our switches can only handle 5A of power which is typically enough for basic rock lights or the backlit feature on small pods.

What is a relay?
A relay is essentially an electronic switch. Where power for your device can run through the relay the large amp draw doesn’t need to extend into the cabin and back decreasing performance. The Switching side only requires a small amount of power to control the switch which is exactly what our 3D printed switches are for. When in doubt its always better to run a relay harness as it puts less stress on your harness, our switch and more direct power to the lights.