What is switchgear?

Switchgear is a catch-all term for the buttons, switches and knobs inside your car. That includes the heating and ventilation controls, drive mode buttons if fitted, shortcut buttons for the infotainment screen, controls on the steering wheel, the window switches and indicators. Whether switchgear feels cheap or expensive to the touch is often a clue to the quality of a car's interior. Many drivers find physical switchgear rather than touch-sensitive items are easier to use while driving. Think how much easier it is to turn a dial if you're cold rather than hunt through the touchscreen.