The latest model vehicle owners may find push button starting feature as it comes with many contemporary cars, and you could install one in an older car by wiring it from the beginning through.
For many people, push button start is a cool and convenient upgrade. This guide is going to take you through the process of how to wire a push button start straight from the starter.
Topic Summary
How Do Push Button Starter Switches Work?
The push button starter switch gets the already present electrical circuit to operate so that it will energize the starting motor, and your vehicle should start. If you press the push button, an electric signal in the battery gets transferred to the starter solenoid.
The next stage sees this solenoid engaging and sending power from the battery to the starter motor. This is to provide a path for current to pass through the starter motor, which leads it into turning and causes the engine to start.
Turning the key to start on a traditional keyed ignition system does this. In a push button start system, there is usually no key. Rather, it has been replaced by the gear, which reduces starting complexity.
Mainly installed on the vehicle’s dashboard or center console, it connects to your ignition system with a push button switch.
Pressing a button will allow you to start the vehicle. There is no need for any key turn, which modernizes and makes starting up your car feel even more convenient.
Steps for How To Wire a Push Button Start Straight from the Starter
However, working on your car’s electrical system can be dangerous if you are not experienced with it, so use caution and maybe even consult a professional.
1. Supplies & Tools Needed
- Push button switch
- 12 gauge wire
- Wire connectors
- Electrical tape
- Wire strippers and cutters
- Screwdrivers
- Multimeter
- A Fuse (suitable for your car)
2. Disconnect the Battery
Disconnect the battery before any electrical work on your car to avoid accidental shorts or even electrocution.
3. Locate the Starter Solenoid
Where to find the starter solenoid? In most cases, it is located on top of the starter motor. Read the vehicle manual to find out where you can locate your starter and connect the solenoid.
4. Install Push Button Switch
Select an appropriate place on your dashboard or center console to situate the push button switch. If needed, drill a hole and mount the switch.
- Positive Wire: Connect a 12 gauge wire on one end with the battery’s positive terminal. Push the wire through a small hole in your car’s firewall and attach it to one of the terminals on the indicated push button.
- Wire 12 gauge To the Starter Solenoid: Wire on the other terminal of the push button switch. This wire runs to the starter solenoid through the firewall.
6. Wiring the Wires To Starter Solenoid
Connect the push button switch wire to the solenoid terminal, which connects the starter. Wire it in with wire connectors to make a good connection, and put electrical tape around the wires so they do not get jumbled together.
7. Install a Fuse
In order to prevent damage to the circuit, an in line fuse should be installed on this wire going from the battery + push button switch. Select the appropriate type of fuse for your car’s electrical mechanism
8. Reconnect the Battery
After all of the connections are tight and have their insulation, you can reconnect the battery.
9. Test the Push Button Start
Place the ignition key in the “ON” position (DO NOT start the engine). Press the push button switch. With everything wired properly, the starter should turn over and start your engine.
10. Secure and Tidy Up Wires
Make sure all wires are routed properly and logically away from moving parts or surfaces that can heat up. Zip ties the wires together to keep them neat.
Can Push Start Work Without a Key?
Yes, a push start system can function without an old fashioned key. But only if there is some kind of fob to match. The key fob talks to the vehicle’s security system, which allows it to start with a fob in proximity.
All that happens is pressing the push start button completes a circuit, so when it senses you have the key fob in your pocket or handbag and flashes up ‘no keys detected’, all this means is the starter can turn.
The unit will only open if the key fob is close by, meaning it should always lock with the user not even being aware. Offering the best of both worlds combines ease with security. You do not need to insert an actual key, but unauthorized use is prevented.
In a few cases of custom installs, it might be possible to avoid installing an electronic control system so that a key or fob is not necessary at all though this is generally inadvisable for security reasons.
Such changes have to be made carefully and generally require a certain level of surgery to the ignition systems and security of the vehicle.
Safety Precautions To Wire a Push Button
- Never use wires below the appropriate gauge for a given current,
- Double check that all connections are tight and insulated.
- Know that modifying the electrics in your vehicle can be dangerous. If you are unsure of yourself, do not hesitate to seek professional help.
FAQs On How To Wire a Push Button Start Straight from the Starter
Can I Install a Push Button Start in Any Car?
Most older cars can add a push button start system. Your mileage may vary, however, as the complexity of installation depends on your automobile’s make and model. Usually, an ignition system must be rewired, and additional parts, such as the key fob or proximity sensor, are used.
How Does a Push Button Start System Enhance Vehicle Security?
The remote keyless entry (RKE) system typically involves a radio triggered plastic fob containing push buttons and constituting either one way or two communication with external hardware within the vehicle. The new McLaren GT starts only when the key fob is approximately 30 meters (98.4 feet) from it, adding some degree of security to reduce unauthorized usage of your car. This also compensates for the risk of theft due to traditional keys.
Does the Push Button Start System Work Without a Key Fob?
With a standard push button start system, you need the key fob to operate them. Although it can be programmed to work without a key fob, the security risks far outweigh this from being recommended. The right installation and maintenance are critical to the overall convenience of using key fobs, not forgetting security.
What Happens If the Key Fob Battery Dies?
In push button start systems, if the key fob battery dies, there is a backup way to start the car. The same principle can apply to holding the key fob close to a specific area of the interior, perhaps in proximity to where you are meant to touch for things like push button starts or simply so long as it gets itself near enough thereto.
How Much Does It Cost To Have a Push Button Start?
Prices for installing a push button start system can vary drastically. It all depends on the vehicle and level of installation. Installation by a professional can cost from $100 to more than $500 per door, factoring in labor and any necessary ancillary parts. We recommend contacting a professional installer to find out the costs of your vehicle specifically.
Conclusion
A push button start wired directly from the starter to your vehicle can make it feel more current and streamlined.
With that and all the precautions mentioned, installing a push button start system in your car will be perfectly successful. If you have any trouble or doubts, ask a professional mechanic and auto electrician!