Adding switches to the blank switch covers in the centre console of the Volkswagen Golf and Jetta

Installing switches in the center console to utilise the blank spaces either requires purchasing the optional switch for that location from Volkswagen however these are a momentary switch, have different markings on them (W for example) and connectors for the switch are not readily available or fitting an aftermarket switch which looks out of place. This guide uses an off the shelf switch and no-one would know the switch is there unless they press the button. Whilst this guide is performed on a Golf Mark V the same blanks are used in the Golf Mark VI so the same switch can be used and the same principles can be applied to any other car with a similar setup.

As an alternative there is a company called CarStyle4You that sells buttons with different engraving that match the OEM buttons and they also sell suitable oem switches. See the end of this guide for their details and a few sample photos.

(left: switches are both up, right: first switch is down)

(left: both switches down, right: second switch is down)

(left: both switches up, right: both switches down)

(left: both switches down, right: both switches up)

The switch used here is a latching switch but momentary is also available. The switch illumination can be used but as the ends are removed you will get white light spilling out the sides so upgrading the internal light to a coloured LED gives a nice glow around the switch.

The switch used to be available from RadioShack in the US but they don’t seem to carry them anymore.

Jaycar (Australia and overseas)

SP-0742 Red
SP-0750 Red Momentary
SP-0752 Green
SP-0753 Green Momentary

To allow the blank to fit and move freely the two sides of the switch around the cover of the switch must be removed, not that the base width must not be altered as it’s a perfect width for the centre console.

Switch Blanks (Blind Covers)

Golf Mark V and VI

• 1K0 959 623 C 3X1 (1K0959623C 3X1) – Passenger & Drivers Side
• 1K0 959 623 D 3X1 (1K0959623D 3X1) - Middle

Remove the plastic in the switch as shown and roughen the surface on the bottom of the switch in preparation for gluing.

Perform a test fitting of the switch and the switch blank to make sure it all fits together. Glue the cover from the switch and the switch blank together, roughen the surface of the switch cover and use a two part epoxy (5 min araldite or similar).

Clip the switch and the switch blank together and test the operation.

The finished switches ready for fitting to the centre console. When soldering the wire on keep the connections tight as the retaining nut has to fit over the soldered connections.

Fit the switches and align them on the front (there is limited adjustment) and screw the retaining nut down tight. Once aligned use some two part epoxy (araldite or similar) to lock it tight and prevent the retaining nut from working it’s way loose. The wires have been taped up using Fabric Adhesive Tape for wiring looms and harnesses and connectors fitted around 300mm down to allow easy removal of the central console.

CarStyle4You sell suitable engraved blanks and switches that match the OEM ones and can be illuminated. I may organise a few of these switches and post a separate guide/review as the quality looks top notch and well worth the money.