Light Bar Switch Wiring Guide for Off-Roaders

When you're tackling rugged trails after sunset, visibility is everything. That’s why installing a light bar switch is just as important as the light bar itself.

Why You Need a Dedicated Light Bar Switch

A light bar switch gives you complete control over your auxiliary lighting. Whether you’re lighting up the path ahead or turning off your lights to avoid attracting attention, a switch lets you do it all with ease. Not to mention, it helps prevent battery drain and protects your wiring system.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Before you begin wiring your light bar switch, make sure you have the following:

  • Light bar and switch

  • Relay and inline fuse

  • Wire connectors

  • Crimping tool and wire stripper

  • Heat shrink tubing or electrical tape

  • Multimeter

Step-by-Step: How to Wire Your Light Bar Switch

1. Mount the Switch

Start by finding a safe and accessible spot on your dashboard or center console to mount the light bar switch. Many off-roaders prefer a waterproof rocker switch for durability.

2. Connect the Relay

Use a standard 4- or 5-pin relay. Here’s a simple layout:

  • Pin 30: Power from the battery (via inline fuse)

  • Pin 87: Wire to the light bar’s positive lead

  • Pin 85: Ground

  • Pin 86: To the switch

This setup ensures your switch controls the relay, not the high-power circuit—keeping things safe.

3. Wire the Switch

Connect the switch to Pin 86 on the relay. The other terminal of the switch goes to a 12V accessory source (like ignition or battery, depending on whether you want constant or switched power).

If your light bar switch has an LED indicator, follow the specific wiring instructions to connect the illumination circuit.

4. Connect Ground and Power

  • Ground the light bar and relay to a clean metal surface.

  • Run a fused power wire directly from the battery to Pin 30.

5. Test the Setup

Before tidying up the wires, test your light bar switch. Flip the switch on and off to check functionality. Use a multimeter if needed.

6. Secure and Protect the Wires

Once everything’s working, use zip ties and protective sleeving to secure your wiring. Weatherproofing with heat-shrink tubing is especially important for off-road vehicles exposed to mud and water.

Upgrade with STV Motorsports Light Bar Switches

At STV Motorsports, we offer premium light bar switch options designed for off-road warriors. Our switches are waterproof, laser-etched for easy visibility, and engineered for rugged performance.

Installing a light bar switch is a simple but essential upgrade for any off-road vehicle. With the right tools and wiring method, you’ll enjoy safer night rides, better control, and a cleaner setup. Ready to hit the trails?

→ Shop premium off-road switches now at www.stvmotorsports.com.

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