The dashboard switch specification changed substantially across the production run, and identifying which type is fitted is essential when ordering replacements. The MGC uses the same switches as the contemporary MGB Mark II, including the combined ignition switch and steering column lock that locks the steering when the key is removed.
Switch Types by Period
Early cars from 1962 used toggle switches, with lights, wiper, and heater functions each controlled by individual chrome toggles below the radio aperture. From the start of the 1972 model year at chassis 258001, non-illuminated rocker switches replaced the toggles on all RHD and non-North American cars, with the functions remaining in the same positions.
From September 1976, the 1977 model year, the MGB dashboard was redesigned with a new Trimite-covered facia carrying up to five illuminated rocker switches with pictorial legends in a panel below the face-level air vents.
Common Failures
The hazard warning switch is a well-documented cause of indicator failure across all years fitted, as the turn signal circuit runs through it and a failing switch disables the indicators entirely before any other symptom is noticed, so it should always be checked first when diagnosing indicator failure. The BL-era illuminated rocker switches fitted from September 1976 are a known failure point, where dirt and corrosion on the internal contacts creates resistance, which generates heat, which gradually causes the contacts to separate, producing intermittent operation before failing altogether, the heater fan switch being the most common casualty and typically losing slow speed first. The combined ignition switch carries the full starting current to the starter solenoid on pre-relay cars, and the contacts can burn and fail under this load, a symptom being the key needing to be held firmly in the start position or intermittent failure to crank.
Switches Available
Toggle switches are available for the early dashboard in the correct specifications, along with the push-pull map light switch and illuminated heated rear window switch for 1969 to 1971 cars, and the overdrive switch with its chrome and satin escutcheon. Non-illuminated rocker switches cover the 1972 to September 1976 dashboard in all functions, lights, wiper, heater fan, heated rear window, hazard warning, and auxiliaries. Illuminated rocker switches for the September 1976-onwards dashboard cover all functions including interior light, heater fan, heated rear window, rear fog lamps, hazard warning, and main lighting.
When replacing the ignition and steering lock assembly, the new lock is supplied with keys and should be checked for correct operation in all positions before final installation. The panel light rheostat, warning lamp lenses in all colours, door courtesy switches, floor-mounted dipswitches in both round and rectangular types, push-button switches for starter, horn, and washer applications, and internal illumination bulbs for the rocker switches are all available.