Billy Covington As a Subaru Legacy owner, you may want to perform minor repairs and maintenance on your car yourself. One such task might be to remove the parking switch. The parking switch is a small component that turns on your car’s lights when parking. If you need to replace the switch or perform any maintenance on it, you’ll need to know how to remove it properly. In this guide, we’ll provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to remove the parking switch on your Subaru Legacy.
Audience
This article is intended for DIY enthusiasts and Subaru Legacy owners who want to perform minor maintenance on their car. The audience is tech-savvy and familiar with using tools and following instructions. They may have a basic to intermediate level of knowledge about removing parts from a car.
Tools Needed
Before we start, gather the following tools:
- Flat-head screwdriver
- Pliers
Step 1: Disconnect the Battery
Before starting any work on your car, make sure to disconnect the battery to prevent any electrical accidents. Locate the battery under the hood, and use the pliers to disconnect the negative terminal.
Step 2: Remove the Trim Cover
The parking switch is located on the dashboard. To access it, first, remove the trim cover around the switch. Use a flat-head screwdriver to carefully remove the cover by prying it off. Work the screwdriver around the edges of the cover, gently lifting it up until it separates from the dashboard.
Step 3: Remove the Clips
Once the cover is off, locate the clips holding the parking switch in place. Using the flat-head screwdriver, carefully remove each clip until the switch is free. Depending on your model year, there may be one or two clips holding the switch.
Step 4: Remove the Screws
Now that the clips are removed, look for any screws holding the switch in place. Depending on the year and model of your Subaru Legacy, there may be screws. If there are screws, remove them using a screwdriver.
Step 5: Disconnect the Wiring Harness
With the clips and screws removed, gently pull the switch out of the dashboard. Locate the wiring harness that connects the switch to the car’s electrical system. Use your fingers to squeeze the connector and disconnect it from the switch.
Step 6: Inspect and Clean
Now that you’ve removed the switch, it’s a good time to inspect and clean it. Check for any visible signs of damage or wear. Use a mild detergent and a soft cloth to clean it if needed.
Step 7: Replace the Switch (optional)
If you’re replacing the switch with a new one, follow these steps in reverse order to install it. Connect the wiring harness to the new switch, and then reinstall the switch by inserting it into the dashboard. Replace any screws or clips that were removed, and then snap the trim cover back in place.
Step 8: Reconnect the Battery
After completing the task, reconnect the negative terminal of the battery. Turn on your car, and check if the parking switch works. If all is good, then congrats! You have successfully removed and installed a parking switch on your Subaru Legacy.
FAQ
Q. Can I remove the parking switch without disconnecting the battery?
A. No, it’s always best to disconnect the battery before performing any electrical work on your car.
Q. Do I need any special tools to remove the parking switch?
A. No, you can remove the parking switch using a flat-head screwdriver and pliers.
Q. Is it easy to replace the parking switch myself?
A. Yes, if you follow the steps outlined in this guide, you should be able to remove and replace the parking switch with ease.
Conclusion
Removing the parking switch on your Subaru Legacy can seem intimidating at first, but it’s a relatively simple task once you know how to do it. Follow the steps outlined in this guide carefully, make sure to disconnect the battery, and you should be able to remove and replace the switch in no time. Remember, always take precautions when working with electrical components, and if you’re not confident in your ability to perform the task, seek professional help.
