Honda CR-Z JDM Red Hazard Switch Installation (Non-Navi Head Unit)
Introduction
The CR-Z's factory hazard switch can be replaced with a JDM red-illuminated unit that lights up red at night and gives the center stack a cleaner, more aggressive appearance. This guide covers cars fitted with the non-navigation head unit. The JDM non-display switch (Honda part number 35510-SZT-J01) shares the same form factor as the US OEM switch, so the warning triangle sits the correct way up and no modification is needed. The task is purely a plug-in swap of one switch for another and involves no wiring changes, which makes it a good first interior job. Original availability was through A&J Racing, but that listing has since disappeared; the same part can be sourced from Japan via eBay or from UK Honda parts suppliers by quoting the part number. Adapted from a community writeup by jcrhee12 on CRZ Forum (https://www.crzforum.com/threads/diy-jdm-red-hazard-non-navi.4844/), including corrections from the follow-up discussion.
Reference
Tools Required
- Flat-head screwdriver with masking or painter's tape wrapped around the tip
- Phillips screwdriver
- Socket or small wrench for the trim bolt
Parts Required
-
JDM red hazard switch, non-navi / non-display (Honda part number 35510-SZT-J01)
Safety Warnings
- ⚠ Tape the tip of any pry tool before working near the head unit and trim to avoid scratching the plastic.
- ⚠ The switch plug is a press-release connector; release its locking tab instead of pulling on the wires, which can damage the terminals.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1 Remove the lower center console pocket
Detach the pocket at the base of the center stack. It is held by five retaining tabs and three hooks; ease it out of its mounting, then reach behind it and unplug the wiring connector feeding it before setting it aside.
2 Release the surrounding center trim
With the pocket out, reach in through the resulting opening. Press outward on the back face of the center trim to pop its three retaining clips, freeing the panel from the dash.
3 Remove the trim retaining bolt
Look beneath the loosened trim to find the single fastener holding it down. Back out that one bolt so the trim can move fully clear.
4 Pry the head unit forward
Protect the finish by wrapping the tip of a flat-head screwdriver in masking tape. Work the tip into the seam between the head unit and the panel at the upper right corner, just behind the glossy display. A little leverage there lets the head unit pop forward out of the dash.
5 Unbolt the hazard switch from the head unit
Turn to the rear of the removed head unit. Two screws fix the hazard switch to it. Back both out, then draw the switch clear of its opening in the housing.
6 Disconnect the switch harness plug
A five-pin connector links the switch to the harness. It uses a press-to-release latch, so depress the locking tab and separate the halves rather than tugging on the wires. The OEM switch is now fully out.
7 Fit the red switch, test, and reassemble
Plug the JDM red switch into the five-pin connector and confirm it works before going any further: cycle the hazards and check both the flash and the red night-time glow. Once verified, reverse the removal sequence — screw the switch to the head unit, seat the head unit back into the dash, refit the trim bolt, clip the trim home, reconnect the pocket's wiring, and press the pocket back into place.
Pro Tips
- 💡 Confirm the new switch flashes correctly before reinstalling the head unit, so you avoid tearing the dash apart a second time.
- 💡 The replacement glows red at night, though some owners note the brightness is fairly subtle.
- 💡 Because the JDM non-navi switch matches the OEM form factor, the triangle icon points the correct direction with no reorientation.
- 💡 If A&J Racing no longer stocks it, order the non-display switch from Japan via eBay or from a UK Honda parts supplier using part number 35510-SZT-J01.
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