Automotive Switches & Buttons

What Types of Automotive Switches Can You Buy?

A switch opens or closes a circuit, by hand or automatically based on pressure, position or another input. Most car switches run on a 12-volt DC system, so your real choices come down to actuator style, mounting and switch action. Here's how the main styles break down:

• Toggle switches use a lever and suit ignition, fuel pump and accessory circuits.
• Rocker switches sit flush in a panel and rock between on and off.
• Push-button switches handle short jobs like cranking the engine or firing nitrous.
• Pressure switches trigger automatically when oil, fuel or air pressure reaches a set point.

Mounting matters too. Snap-in switches press into a cutout, panel-mount switches bolt through a plate, and threaded-shaft switches lock down with a nut.

You'll find a military-spec toggle switch, a heavy-duty toggle switch and a replacement rocker switch from Painless Performance in this category. Need wire, connectors or fuses too? Browse the full lineup of wiring, relays and switches.

Momentary vs. Maintained: Which Switch Action Do You Need?

Switch action is the detail most shoppers overlook. A maintained switch stays where you set it until you move it again. A momentary switch only completes the circuit while you hold it, then springs back.

Use maintained action for circuits that stay on, like electric fans, fuel pumps, lighting and ignition. JEGS-brand options include the Military Spec Waterproof Toggle Switch, a 20-amp maintained on/off unit for always-on circuits.

Use momentary action for short bursts, like cranking the starter, activating nitrous or holding a line lock. The JEGS Push-Button Starter Switch is rated at 50 amps @ 12V with a blue LED actuator. The Biondo Linelock Installation Kit Activation Switch holds the front brakes for a burnout and releases them when you let go.

Before you order, check the switch position in the listing. On/off means maintained, while "momentary" tells you it springs back. If you're new to wiring, start with our guide on how to hook up a toggle switch.

How Do You Match Amp Rating and Circuit Type (SPST vs. DPDT)?

Every switch carries an amp rating, and the load you're powering should stay below it. An undersized switch can overheat, pit its contacts and fail early. Compare 12V switch amp rating specs and you'll see listings like a 30-amp toggle switch or a 60-amp push-button starter switch with screw terminals.

Next, match the circuit type: SPST (single pole, single throw) is a basic on/off switch with one input and one output. SPDT adds a second output, so one switch can choose between two circuits. DPDT (double pole, double throw) controls two separate circuits at once, which suits reversing circuits like power window motors.

When the load draws more than the switch can handle, add one of our automotive relays. A relay lets a low-amp switch control a high-amp load, so the switch only carries a small trigger current. If you're tapping into a factory circuit, learn how to read automotive wiring diagrams before you cut any wires.

Switch Panels and Control Modules for Race and Street Builds

When you're wiring several circuits, a panel puts every control in one spot and cleans up your dash. Our switch panels group multiple switches on one mounting plate, so you don't have to drill a row of separate holes. They're popular in race cars, hot rods and custom interiors.

The JEGS 5-Toggle Switch Panel comes with engraved labels, so you'll always know which toggle runs the fan, pump or lights. The QuickCar Racing Ignition Control Panel combines a push start, an ignition switch and 5 toggle switches in one unit. For a Pro Stock-style dash, the ARC (Auto Rod Controls) In-Dash Pro Stock Control Module measures 8" W x 2-1/4" H x 2" D.

Measure your dash or console opening before you choose a panel, and plan wire routing behind it. You can also finish your setup with a billet aluminum 6-pin switch or 2" aluminum toggle switch extensions for easier reach while you're belted in.

Pressure, Door Jamb, and Activation Switches for Specific Systems

A pressure switch opens or closes a circuit when system pressure hits its set point. That makes it useful for warning lights, fuel pump safety circuits and shift lights. The Stewart Warner 5000-Series Pressure Switch is a 15-PSI, normally open design with a 1/8 in. NPT thread.

Normally open means the circuit stays off until pressure reaches the set point, then it closes. Check the thread size and pressure rating against your sender port before you order. Other system-specific switches in this category include:

• GM-style door jamb switches for dome and courtesy lights.
• 12-volt hazard light switches for adding or replacing flashers.
• Nitrous activation push buttons for wide-open-throttle systems.
• Momentary waterproof push buttons for horns and exposed accessories.

Use the Year/Make/Model fitment selector to confirm vehicle-specific parts. In-stock items ship today, so you can finish your build sooner. Shop all automotive switches above and filter by position or part type for your next wiring project.