AXXESS Metra ASWC-1 Steering Wheel Control Interface & 70-8114 - Easy

In this review the AXXESS Metra ASWC-1 paired with the Metra 70-8114 harness is evaluated for drivers who want to keep factory steering wheel controls after installing an aftermarket radio. The bottom line: this combo is best for people who need a largely automatic setup that recognizes vehicle and radio types and keeps button functions intact. The package stands out because the interface auto detects vehicle and radio connections and the harness includes RCAs to retain the factory 3.5mm auxiliary connection, making it practical for many Toyota, Scion and Lexus installs.

Key Features

• Universal Interface: The ASWC-1 is built to work with major radio brands so installers do not need a second interface for common head units.
• Auto Detection: The interface auto detects vehicle type and radio connection which streamlines programming and reduces setup time.
• Dual Assignment: Buttons on the steering wheel can be dual assigned so common functions and secondary controls are both available.
• Updateable Firmware: The ASWC-1 can be updated via a common micro B USB cable to keep compatibility current with new radios and vehicles.
• Vehicle-Specific Harness: The Metra 70-8114 harness is made for 2003-up select Toyota/Scion/Lexus models and includes RCA connections to retain the factory 3.5mm jack.
• Aux Retention: The included RCA leads allow retention of the factory auxiliary input provided the aftermarket radio has an aux in.

Who It's For

The AXXESS Metra pairing is aimed at DIY installers and professional shops replacing factory radios in 2003-up Toyota, Scion and Lexus vehicles who want to keep steering wheel controls working without buying multiple brand-specific interfaces. It suits people who value a largely automatic setup and occasional firmware updates to maintain compatibility.

It is less suitable for owners of vehicles not listed among the select Toyota/Scion/Lexus fitments or for users who expect fully guided step-by-step printed instructions; some customers report that installation documentation can be sparse, so those who prefer hand-holding might want professional installation help.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Works with most major head unit brands, removing the need for extra interfaces.
• Auto-detection simplifies programming and reduces manual steps during setup.
• Includes a vehicle-specific harness and RCA leads to retain the factory aux jack on compatible radios.
• Upgradeable firmware via micro B USB keeps the unit current with new radios.

Cons

• Installation instructions receive mixed feedback, so some installers may find the documentation lacking.
• Retaining the factory 3.5mm jack requires the aftermarket radio to have an aux in connection.

Specifications

Product	ASWC-1 interface + 70-8114 harness
Compatibility	2003-up select Toyota, Scion, Lexus vehicles
Radio Support	Major aftermarket radio brands (auto-detect)
Programming	Auto-detects vehicle and radio; updateable via micro B USB
Steering Control	Dual assign capable for steering wheel buttons
Aux Retention	RCA leads included to retain factory 3.5mm jack (requires aftermarket aux in)

Our Verdict

The ASWC-1 with the 70-8114 harness is a practical, cost-effective solution for maintaining steering wheel controls on many Toyota, Scion and Lexus installs. It saves time with auto-detection and broad radio compatibility, and the aux retention option makes it flexible; just be prepared for minimal printed instructions and confirm your aftermarket radio has an aux in.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this keep my factory steering wheel controls working?
Yes, the ASWC-1 is designed to retain steering wheel controls and can dual assign buttons for primary and secondary functions.

Does the harness keep the factory 3.5mm aux jack?
Yes, the 70-8114 includes RCA leads that allow you to retain the factory 3.5mm jack provided your new radio has an aux in.

Can I update the interface if new radios appear?
Yes, the ASWC-1 can be updated via a common micro B USB cable to add new vehicle and radio compatibility.