Steering wheel switch discovery

[A/V1]

Hey guys, I happened to swing by a junk yard earlier and picked up a steering wheel switch out of a Toyota something out there. Anyway, a lightbulb went on over my head and this was the result.

Notice anything different?

 

[A/V1]

Well, if you didn't notice, look at the right side switch bank. I took the center switch from the left side and put it on the center position of the right side. I know it looks goofy being a different color, but it may create two more button functions for aftermarket systems. I honestly doubt it will have any affect on OEM systems, however that is a possibility too.

Here it is illuminated.

 

[A/V1]

I removed the right side switch bank and completely disassembled it. This picture is of the circuit board for it. The two center positions are labelled "display on" & "display off". There is also another position on the board which is unused on our vehicles labelled "acc". I am assuming it is for the cruise switch on the Siennas. This may also be developed for another function for us as well.

When I reassembled the switch bank, I installed two white pieces which are used to transfer the pressure applied to the switch, to the circuit board contacts. I got these from the extra switch bank I just bought, and are needed for the switch to function. The switch does not fit 100%, but does work & I can feel the button press to detent & return. It would definitely be nice to have the intended switch installed there.

Anyway, food for thought. I thought you all might like to know...

 

[MikesToy]

i wish my steering wheel be illuminated. That'd be nice.

 

[A/V1]

i wish my steering wheel be illuminated. That'd be nice.

Yeah, Like so many other things Toyota does, they make it difficult and expensive to add switches if you didn't already have them. Kinda like the whole 6-disc / single disc thing. Why the he11 would they design and install so many different radios in their models? And why would they make different center consoles, and HVAC controls dependent on what radio is installed. I love my 4Runner, but I think it's pretty freakin stupid if you ask me. Why not make the parts the same? It seems to me that it just costs them more because they have to design so many different pieces for the same vehicle. Ok. I feel better now after my rant.

Anyway, Here's a diagram of the Sienna's steering wheel switches. The Distance Control Switch is the one I believe uses the "ACC" position on the board.

 

[MikesToy]

AV/1- I'd like to see your ride.

 

[Mike07SE]

A/V1, nice writeup! This can definitely be a bonus when putting in a multimedia system.

 

[tkr128]

The 2005-2006 Camry XLE's have have a switch on the middle right steering wheel to control the avg fuel economy/speed display. The top button is labeled "Info" and the bottom button is labeled "Mode Reset" I've always wondered if it would control the center display on the 4Runner.

 

[A/V1]

Yeah, I think it was a Camry I got the switch bank from, but the car was so cut up & damaged, I really couldn't even tell. Unfortunately it didn't have any switches on the right side.

It would be nice to compile a list of known vehicles which share the same steering wheel switch design.

2003-2009 4Runners
2005-2006 Camry

Any others?

 

[tkr128]

It would be nice to compile a list of known vehicles which share the same steering wheel switch design.

2003-2009 4Runners
2005-2006 Camry

Any others?

2003-2006 Tundra
2005+ Tacoma
2004+ Sienna
2004-2006 Highlander
2003-2007 Sequoia
2003-2007 Land Cruiser
2003+ Lexus GX470
2003-2007 Lexus LX470

 

[A/V1]

Awesome - Thanks! I forgot all about the GX470s, Siennas, & Sequioas. I never noticed the Tacomas & Cruisers had the same set up.

Unfortunately, I think there may only be a select few which used the right side switch banks. I'll just have to keep my eyes open at the junk yards. And if I get too impatient, I may just buy a new one for the Camry.