What Is a Toggle Switch and How Is It Used in Cars?

To turn on your fog lights, you most likely have to flip a switch. There are different types of switches, but they all make it easy for you to control the features in your car. One example is the toggle switch, which is easy to source, install, and use.

Technically, any switch can be called a “toggle switch” if it turns an accessory on or off because toggling refers to activating and deactivating a load. Switches take all kinds of different shapes on modern vehicles.

Technically, any switch can be called a “toggle switch” if it turns an accessory on or off because toggling refers to activating and deactivating a load.

–Richard McCuistian, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician

What Is a Toggle Switch and How Does it Work?

A toggle switch turns a specific feature or accessory on and off.
A toggle switch works by interrupting or connecting the flow of current to a specific accessory. Turning the switch off removes a metal contact from the circuit, breaking the flow of current. Meanwhile, turning the switch on places the contact back in place. This closes the circuit again so that electricity can flow through.

What Is a Toggle Switch Used For?

You can find toggle switches on all kinds of electronics. Fax machines, electric toys, and audio equipment are some common examples. As for an automotive toggle switch, you’ll most likely find one in older vehicles. But again, any switch that “toggles” power on and off can technically be referred to as a toggle switch.

Classic vehicles have all sorts of switches, including a toggle switch. Meanwhile, most modern vehicles only have toggle switches from modifications. Some drivers like the look and feel of toggle switches because they’re so customizable. You can find toggle switches in different colors, styles, and sizes.

Vehicle Lights

Wiring headlights to a toggle switch is a popular modification for many cars. Some vehicles don’t have a dedicated button for headlights, so owners add a toggle switch for their convenience. A toggle switch can also be a great fix for broken headlight switches because it’s cheap and easy to install.

In some vehicles, a toggle switch also controls the fog lights, chassis lights, and off-road lights. It gives drivers quick and easy access to their lights while driving in bad weather.

Air Conditioning

You can also use a toggle switch for your car’s air conditioning (A/C) system. Plenty of drivers use a toggle switch when they want to rewire their compressor. It allows them to control the signal that activates the air compressor. Wiring a switch also gives you the freedom to add other modifications, such as an on delay timer.

Power Windows

Wiring a toggle switch to power windows is another popular upgrade among drivers. Most modern vehicles have power windows, which you can control with a switch instead of manually cranking the windows. With a toggle switch, you can easily open and close the different windows of your car even while driving.

Power Door Locks

In most modern vehicles, you can lock all the doors of your car by pressing a button or flipping a switch. If you have an older vehicle, you can also upgrade your door locks by installing power locks. There are plenty of kits and toggle switches that you can buy for your classic car.

Trunk Release

A trunk lid release switch lets you open your trunk from inside your vehicle. Flipping the toggle switch unlocks your trunk, causing it to pop open. While their position varies depending on your car’s make and model, most trunk switches can be found below your steering wheel or on your center console.

Fuel Pump

Another popular modification among drivers is wiring the fuel pump to a toggle switch. Once installed, you can use the toggle switch to shut down your car’s electric fuel pump. This protects your car from thieves because the switch stops your car from jump-starting. Even if they hot-wire your car or use your keys, they won’t be able to start your car if the switch is turned off.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Toggle Switches

A toggle switch might not be for everybody, but it comes with a lot of advantages if you want one for your car. Toggle switches are durable, energy efficient, and ideal for circuit boards. Sealing toggle switches is also easier than sealing other types of switches. This gives them greater dust and water resistance.

Keep in mind that toggle switches also come with some disadvantages. For example, they make clicking noises that can annoy some people. They can also be bulkier than rocker switches. In the end, installing a toggle switch all comes down to your needs and preference.