Aux Upfitter Overhead Switches installed! - DIY writeup instructions & photos

[Cardboardbronco]

Has anyone done this recently? I'm still debating if I wanna install this or go with Switch pros at a similar cost. Really want the OEM but dealing with the module programming is making me hesitant.

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[_2020_]

It was very easy actually. It mounts on top of the engine fuse box with a quick disconnect thumb screw. The switches are mounted up near where the upfitter switches go.

any chance their app would show up on carplay? That would make it kinda perfect!

 

[mdk100]

I did the install, but not the module programming. Everything works fine. I suppose there is a risk of denial on a warranty claim, but I’m not worried enough to do anything about it.

 

[RustysBronco]

Can someone shed some light on the c9531 USB charge port? Is there a USB C in there?

There isn't one there.

 

[BrianH]

[Last Updated 5-6-2022]

For folks who are going to ask, this was done on a 4 door, 2.3L, non-Sas, soft top, Outer Banks Lux.

IMPORTANT: Your configuration might be different and cause you to need a different harness than what I did. It is entirely possible your Bronco was built differently. Before you begin, I recommend getting with your parts guy to confirm which harness and parts are correct for your specific build. You will need check the pins on all your related harnesses coming from the BCM up the driver A-Pillar and down the passenger side to determine adequacy. It is entirely possible that your Bronco A-Pillar harness was not pinned from the factory & you will need extra efforts (not covered here). Lastly, if your fuse box does not have the aux fuse pins in place, you will need to speak to your local parts guy to obtain a replacement box equipped with all the necessary fuse connections. See posts 100+ for additional images and discussion on this.

I took TONS of pictures, which you can download and sort by their respective date/time stamp as a visual aid. https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1W4w8jAuNS2ksrwHCcVZ68Dddv5unJrHg

In the simplest of explanation of how do this for those who can't wait for the detailed write up.

Parts Needed (Confirm W/Your Local Ford Dealer For Your Specific Model -

Outerbanks Lux
Overhead Trim Panel: M2DZ-78519A70-JC (Includes 6 Aux Switches)
A-Pillar Wire Harness: M2DZ-14335-C
BCMC/Fuse Junction Panel Assembly (Fuse Box): MB3Z-14A068-NBA

Base
Overhead Trim Panel: M2DZ-78519A70-JC
A-Pillar Wire Harness: M2DZ-14335-G
BCMC/Fuse Junction Panel Assembly (Fuse Box): MB3Z-14A068-Z

Big Bend
Overhead Trim Panel: M2DZ-78519A70-JC A-Pillar Wire Harness: M2DZ-14335-J
BCMC/Fuse Junction Panel Assembly (Fuse Box): MB3Z-14A068-Z

Tools needed (Shop Dog Optional)
1. Trim panel tools
2. 7mm socket
3. 8mm socket
4. 10mm socket
5. 15mm socket
7. Torx T20 bit.
8. Torx T30 bit.
9. J2534 Compliant Scan Tool

• Here's a "cheap" one that I can confirm works: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B097NHQ7ZW/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_NRA0HYG48NA7FA6DBGFF

10. Laptop loaded with the Ford Diagnostic & Repair System (FDRS) software (configure your scan tool before using). Here are the websites to download the FDRS software and buy a license (was $50 for a 2-day last I checked)

• https://www.fordtechservice.dealerconnection.com/VDIRS/wds/vcm_retail_renewal_Latest.asp
• https://www2.helminc.com/ngsm/account_create.asp?u=&src=motorcraft
• Caution: Proceed at your own risk when programming (my formal disclaimer if you screw up your own Bronco).

11. A test light.

Instructions
1. Retract soft top.
2. Remove trim starting with the "oh shit" handle on passenger and driver sides.
3. Remove small header trim panel pieces near the soft top latch (both sides).
4. Remove the A-pillar airbag plastic trim from the a-pillar panel assembly (both sides).
5. Remove the airbag trim from above driver and passenger roll bar.
6. Loosen hardware mounting the driver and passenger airbags to the roll bar and the clip fastening the airbags to the a pillar (they'll hang freely).
7. Remove driver and passenger trim panel below the "oh shit" handle.
8. Add 3M Masking Tape around the visor mounting point (this will prevent scratching up your header panel). Remove and disconnect driver and passenger visors & visor clip.
9. Pull a-pillar panels out carefully, exposing the factory harness on either side.
10. Pull header panel above visor location, disconnecting the wire harness mounts.
11. Pull dome light assembly down carefully disconnecting all connections to the mirror, dome assembly, microphone, etc.
12. Swap dome assembly, retaining the microphone from the old dome assembly with the sunglass holder.
13. Replace harness with new harness equipped with the connection for the upfitter switches.
14. Reassemble, working steps 13 backward to 1.
15. Move on to replacing the Fuse Junction Panel Assembly (BCMC). First, using your J2534 compliant scan tool plugged into your OBD port and laptop with FDRS software, begin by starting the PMI process in FDRS for the BCMC Module. Follow the on screen prompts. It is crucial you make sure your laptop is powered at all times & does not power down mid-install.
16. When instructed, get back under the under hood, disconnect the battery and start swapping the Fuse Junction Panel Assembly/ Battery Junction Box with the one including support for the aux switches. Once swapped, reconnect the battery and get back to the laptop.
17. In FDRS, complete the on screen instructions to finish the PMI Process. You might get a Procedure Unsuccessful error indicating the BCMC has a parts mismatch. Go ahead and move on to the next step.
18. Go back to FDRS, download/run the BCMC Module C Configuration. Follow the on screen prompts until you have confirmed the programming was successful. (This will be necessary to avoid DTC's due to the BCMC with a different part number.)
19. Check your switches and aux wiring with a test light for functionality.
20. Marvel at your work.

Time to install
1.5-2 hours (less for an experienced tech)

Overhead Wire Assembly Swap // Interior Tear Down // Switch Dome Light Assembly Install

Install of BCMC-C w/suppport for Aux Switches

New BCMC Programming

Test Light Wired To AUX1

Shout out to @1Five1 Garage for their video on pulling apart the header panel. It was a huge help to get things started!

How much do you think the dealer would charge to do this install? I just don’t have the technical abilities to take this on.

 

[RustysBronco]

I'll defer to others on this question.

 

[Jtuck10]

Anyone do this on a Heritage yet and have the part numbers? I’d assume it’s the same parts as a big bend.

 

[sirius76]

I found the console for only $200 on ebay and the harness for for $42. Just need the fuse box and I will be trying this.

 

[BrianH]

Damn what a process for a $200 pa

[Last Updated 5-6-2022]

For folks who are going to ask, this was done on a 4 door, 2.3L, non-Sas, soft top, Outer Banks Lux.

IMPORTANT: Your configuration might be different and cause you to need a different harness than what I did. It is entirely possible your Bronco was built differently. Before you begin, I recommend getting with your parts guy to confirm which harness and parts are correct for your specific build. You will need check the pins on all your related harnesses coming from the BCM up the driver A-Pillar and down the passenger side to determine adequacy. It is entirely possible that your Bronco A-Pillar harness was not pinned from the factory & you will need extra efforts (not covered here). Lastly, if your fuse box does not have the aux fuse pins in place, you will need to speak to your local parts guy to obtain a replacement box equipped with all the necessary fuse connections. See posts 100+ for additional images and discussion on this.

I took TONS of pictures, which you can download and sort by their respective date/time stamp as a visual aid. https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1W4w8jAuNS2ksrwHCcVZ68Dddv5unJrHg

In the simplest of explanation of how do this for those who can't wait for the detailed write up.

Parts Needed (Confirm W/Your Local Ford Dealer For Your Specific Model -

Outerbanks Lux
Overhead Trim Panel: M2DZ-78519A70-JC (Includes 6 Aux Switches)
A-Pillar Wire Harness: M2DZ-14335-C
BCMC/Fuse Junction Panel Assembly (Fuse Box): MB3Z-14A068-NBA

Base
Overhead Trim Panel: M2DZ-78519A70-JC
A-Pillar Wire Harness: M2DZ-14335-G
BCMC/Fuse Junction Panel Assembly (Fuse Box): MB3Z-14A068-Z

Big Bend
Overhead Trim Panel: M2DZ-78519A70-JC A-Pillar Wire Harness: M2DZ-14335-J
BCMC/Fuse Junction Panel Assembly (Fuse Box): MB3Z-14A068-Z

Tools needed (Shop Dog Optional)
1. Trim panel tools
2. 7mm socket
3. 8mm socket
4. 10mm socket
5. 15mm socket
7. Torx T20 bit.
8. Torx T30 bit.
9. J2534 Compliant Scan Tool

• Here's a "cheap" one that I can confirm works: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B097NHQ7ZW/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_NRA0HYG48NA7FA6DBGFF

10. Laptop loaded with the Ford Diagnostic & Repair System (FDRS) software (configure your scan tool before using). Here are the websites to download the FDRS software and buy a license (was $50 for a 2-day last I checked)

• https://www.fordtechservice.dealerconnection.com/VDIRS/wds/vcm_retail_renewal_Latest.asp
• https://www2.helminc.com/ngsm/account_create.asp?u=&src=motorcraft
• Caution: Proceed at your own risk when programming (my formal disclaimer if you screw up your own Bronco).

11. A test light.

Instructions
1. Retract soft top.
2. Remove trim starting with the "oh shit" handle on passenger and driver sides.
3. Remove small header trim panel pieces near the soft top latch (both sides).
4. Remove the A-pillar airbag plastic trim from the a-pillar panel assembly (both sides).
5. Remove the airbag trim from above driver and passenger roll bar.
6. Loosen hardware mounting the driver and passenger airbags to the roll bar and the clip fastening the airbags to the a pillar (they'll hang freely).
7. Remove driver and passenger trim panel below the "oh shit" handle.
8. Add 3M Masking Tape around the visor mounting point (this will prevent scratching up your header panel). Remove and disconnect driver and passenger visors & visor clip.
9. Pull a-pillar panels out carefully, exposing the factory harness on either side.
10. Pull header panel above visor location, disconnecting the wire harness mounts.
11. Pull dome light assembly down carefully disconnecting all connections to the mirror, dome assembly, microphone, etc.
12. Swap dome assembly, retaining the microphone from the old dome assembly with the sunglass holder.
13. Replace harness with new harness equipped with the connection for the upfitter switches.
14. Reassemble, working steps 13 backward to 1.
15. Move on to replacing the Fuse Junction Panel Assembly (BCMC). First, using your J2534 compliant scan tool plugged into your OBD port and laptop with FDRS software, begin by starting the PMI process in FDRS for the BCMC Module. Follow the on screen prompts. It is crucial you make sure your laptop is powered at all times & does not power down mid-install.
16. When instructed, get back under the under hood, disconnect the battery and start swapping the Fuse Junction Panel Assembly/ Battery Junction Box with the one including support for the aux switches. Once swapped, reconnect the battery and get back to the laptop.
17. In FDRS, complete the on screen instructions to finish the PMI Process. You might get a Procedure Unsuccessful error indicating the BCMC has a parts mismatch. Go ahead and move on to the next step.
18. Go back to FDRS, download/run the BCMC Module C Configuration. Follow the on screen prompts until you have confirmed the programming was successful. (This will be necessary to avoid DTC's due to the BCMC with a different part number.)
19. Check your switches and aux wiring with a test light for functionality.
20. Marvel at your work.

Time to install
1.5-2 hours (less for an experienced tech)

Overhead Wire Assembly Swap // Interior Tear Down // Switch Dome Light Assembly Install

Install of BCMC-C w/suppport for Aux Switches

New BCMC Programming

Test Light Wired To AUX1

Shout out to @1Five1 Garage for their video on pulling apart the header panel. It was a huge help to get things started!

Damn what a process for a $200 part. I bought a pre-owned Outer Banks Lux without the aux switches and would like to get them installed. I will admit no way I can take this on. Do you think the dealer could do this or should I find a local shop? I’m not sure a local shop has the experience on these Broncos doing this type of job. Ford should make the aux switch a standard on the build - ridiculous. Thanks for the post and great job!

 

[RustysBronco]

Damn what a process for a $200 pa

Damn what a process for a $200 part. I bought a pre-owned Outer Banks Lux without the aux switches and would like to get them installed. I will admit no way I can take this on. Do you think the dealer could do this or should I find a local shop? I’m not sure a local shop has the experience on these Broncos doing this type of job. Ford should make the aux switch a standard on the build - ridiculous. Thanks for the post and great job!

Dealer should be able to do it, but expect to pay dealer shop rates to install. Be glad Ford pre-wired all the trucks for these all the same, or otherwise it would be way more work than what you see here.

 

[RustysBronco]

How much do you think the dealer would charge to do this install? I just don’t have the technical abilities to take this on.

Brian did you end up having the dealer installed and do you mind sharing what they charged you?

 

[35tires]

How much do you think the dealer would charge to do this install? I just don’t have the technical abilities to take this on.

I know they did mine for 1700-ish for parts and labor. I am not a fan of this dealership anymore but think they are probably around standard.

I regret doing it this way and wasted a LOT of money when I compare it to similar products. I have maxed the switches, still have things I want to add and pissed away too much on it. I thought I wouldn't modify this one that much. Welp.

Off to go rip off the tailgate.

 

[BrianH]

Brian did you end up having the dealer installed and do you mind sharing what they charged you?

Not yet - still looking at options. I had the standard bumper with fog lights and upgraded it to the HD Mod and would like to reuse that wiring for a triple set of fogs terminating to a single toggle switch that I can go right next to the headlight switch. This would be much easier than installing the OEM aux switch.

 

[BrianH]

I know they did mine for 1700-ish for parts and labor. I am not a fan of this dealership anymore but think they are probably around standard.

I regret doing it this way and wasted a LOT of money when I compare it to similar products. I have maxed the switches, still have things I want to add and pissed away too much on it. I thought I wouldn't modify this one that much. Welp.

Off to go rip off the tailgate.

Thanks for the info

 

[RustysBronco]

I know they did mine for 1700-ish for parts and labor. I am not a fan of this dealership anymore but think they are probably around standard.

I regret doing it this way and wasted a LOT of money when I compare it to similar products. I have maxed the switches, still have things I want to add and pissed away too much on it. I thought I wouldn't modify this one that much. Welp.

Off to go rip off the tailgate.

It's definitely a fair amount to tear down to install and a little time consuming, which is the biggebut I do think anyone with some technical knowledge, the patience, and tools can probably do it.

Not yet - still looking at options. I had the standard bumper with fog lights and upgraded it to the HD Mod and would like to reuse that wiring for a triple set of fogs terminating to a single toggle switch that I can go right next to the headlight switch. This would be much easier than installing the OEM aux switch.

For that purpose I totally agree. 4x4TruckLEDs sells the wire to switch the OEM fog harness over to an aftermarket. Plug and play and will retain the factory fog light button functionality.

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