While ordering the new windshield trim from The Fiero Store, I got to talking to the guy on the phone and he said that they had a new and improved version of the deck lid switch. For those that don't know, they are the ONLY place you can order a new switch from. Unfortunately, the deck lid switch that they've been selling for many years looked decent during the day, but horrible at night. There was a TON of light bleed through.
Old Fiero Store deck lid switch:
Old Fiero Store Switch vs. New Fiero Store Switch:
The color of grey appears to be slightly different, with the new switch being
slightly lighter. It's really hard to capture the "true" color difference. The biggest difference I saw was that the background for the icon on the switch is now much darker. This should give better contrast and looks better than the old one (IMHO).
Now for the bigger test, and what everyone wants to know, "How does it look at night???"
New Fiero Store deck lid switchf:
This has
VASTLY improved. There is
ZERO detectable bleed through.
Did they "correct" the toggle function of the switch?
If my memory is correct, with the factory switch, you would press on the picture on the button (bottom) and it would pop the deck lid. With the new 2.0 version, you still have to press on the top portion of the switch above the picture. For my usability, this isn't a big deal, but it seems like anytime I take my car into a place that isn't familiar with the car, they press on the bottom side of the switch and end up breaking it. Very very annoying. For those on the forum that have low mileage cars with the factory switch, please chime in on which portion of the switch actually pops the deck lid. I'm pretty sure I'm right, but it's been years since I've had a factory switch.UPDATE: 12/11/2016 - The consensus is that the "correct" spot to push on the switch is the "upper" portion. Based on this, the one sold by the Fiero Store is functioning as the original and as designed. W00t!
Closing thoughts:
Even though the switch isn't a complete 100% match to factory (assuming my memory is correct on the chunk you press to pop the lid), this is a major improvement.
With parts getting harder to find as our cars continue to age, I'm glad to see that folks are still interested in making improvements. Hopefully this helps review helps others if they need to a replacement.
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-Chris
'85 V6 SE 4sp (SOLD)
'88 GT - Series 3 SC3800 w/ 3.5" pulley, 1.8" rockers, 3" exhaust, 3.5" intake, 3.29 gearing. Installed and tuned by
Sinister Performance'99 Kawasaki Vulcan 500, owned since new
'09 G37x Sedan w/ Premium & Nav (wife's car)
'14 Yamaha FJR - 0-60 in 2.8s w/ 34MPG!!!
[This message has been edited by Chris_narf (edited 12-11-2016).]