What Are Lever Switches and How Are They Used in Cars?

Every electrical system in your vehicle is controlled by a switch in some way. Power window switches, headlight switches, and turn signal switches all perform an electrical function. When it comes to controlling bigger systems inside your vehicle, they are controlled by bigger switches. Lever switches are used to control many of the larger systems inside your vehicle.

What are lever switches?

Lever switches are multi-positional and often multi-functional arms that control larger, often mechanical functions. Because of their larger size, lever switches can incorporate other smaller switches and buttons.

What are lever switches used for?

Most notably, the gearshift lever is a lever switch. Modern vehicles use electronic shift solenoids on the transmission to shift gears, so mechanical rods are seldom used for gearshift levers. A gearshift lever has several positions from drive and reverse to neutral and park. It is difficult to put as many functions into a smaller switch and have it operate as reliably as a large lever like the gearshift lever. Also, an overdrive button or other functions can be integrated into the handle or lever switch itself due to its size. Other uses for lever switches include:

  • Cruise control lever switches
  • Turn signal switches
  • Transfer case levers

When you move a lever, electrical contacts inside the base of the lever switch are changed. Often there is a sliding contact that displays the position of your lever mechanically or electrically on your instrument cluster. Due to their larger size, their contacts are more durable. Lever switches are very reliable and don’t often fail.


The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Need Help With Your Car?

Our certified mobile mechanics make house calls in over 2,000 U.S. cities. Fast, free online quotes for your car repair.

GET A QUOTE

Related articles

How Long Does a Transmission Oil Pressure Switch Last?
The The transmission oil lubricates the different parts in the transmission to ensure they are protected against heat and friction. In addition, the transmission fluid pump creates hydraulic pressure inside of the transmission. The purpose of the transmission oil pressure...
How to Replace a Fuel Pump Shut Off Switch
The fuel pump shut off switch may be faulty when the Check Engine Light comes on or if the engine suddenly turns off while driving.
How to Replace a Power Steering Pressure Switch
Cars with a hydraulic power steering systems use a power steering pressure switch for hydraulic efficiency. A sign of failure is sluggish steering.

Related questions

Turn signal won't blink
Hi there. If the turn signals will come on, but will not blink then the flasher module has failed. This module is what turns the lights off and on when the turn signal or hazards are used. It is possible...
Car interior/dome lights won't turn on.
Hi there. For the interior lights not working after replacing the battery, first check the switch to make sure that the light is on. If the light is on the door selection and will not turn on, then one of...
Brake lights stay on cruse control don't work , traction control is off ,light on the dash is on. Replaced the brake switch. 2008 Pontiac G6
Hello - your brake light switch (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-to-replace-your-brake-light-switch-by-spencer-cates) needs to be adjusted, even though it was replaced. With the switch "On" all the time, the cruise control won't work, now will the traction control system either. For assistance with this step,...

How can we help?

Our service team is available 7 days a week, Monday - Friday from 6 AM to 5 PM PST, Saturday - Sunday 7 AM - 4 PM PST.

1 (855) 347-2779 · hi@yourmechanic.com