Mounting a switch

[Kaitlyn2004]

Okay so I have a switch I want to mount in the little panel thing where the sunroof/VSA option buttons are... but since I only have sunroof, I have 2 free "panels".

Do these just pop out with simply prying? Is there space behind them, or not?

I have a switch which isn't the full size of the panel, and I am not much of a craftspersons... how exactly could I cut the panel/mount the switch to the panel?

[chanke4252]

The panels pop out, yes. Look at the fog light install directions for your year, it will tell you how to pop the lower dash cover off. There is one screw in the lower left hand corner of the cover and the rest are clips which should just pop off (make sure you put any metal pieces that come off when it pops off back on the clips). It's a little difficult and I think they should have attached it in another way since it can require considerable effort to take it off. A nice big flathead screwdriver covered in masking tape will help a lot. Alternatively, I think the big panel that holds those 3 switches (and the panels that take fill up where there are no switches) just pops outwards, though I can't think of a good way to pop it out without scratching it though so unless you can get something behind there I think your best bet is just going to be removing the whole panel. After that, it depends on what kind of switch you have, but if it's just a little round toggle switch you should be able to just drill a decent sized hole through the switch place holder and then get some nuts and washers to hold the switch in place assuming it is threaded. Post some pictures of the switch (maybe with something to compare it like a credit card or a coin to so we know how big it is) if you want a better solution. Also, what is the switch for if you don't mind my asking?

[Kaitlyn2004]

Well site doesn't have item listed, and I haven't actually got it yet... but it would be something like this:

http://www.germes-online.com/direct/dbimage/50306189/Rocker__Switch.jpg

[chanke4252]

There may be a better way to do this, but if I were mounting it, I would drill a small hole right through the center of the switch place-holder in your car, then use a bigger bit to make the hole large enough to fit a small file in. Then I would shape the hole to fit the switch little-by-little with a good file (any hardware store) and sand it smooth once I have about the right size. The picture isn't great, but I THINK I see some grippy ridges on the sides of the switch that could be helpful if you are trying to avoid using any adhesive type stuff if you get the hole to fit it well enough for those to grip.