Anyone toyed with the idea of Push Start Button

[Razz]

Has anyone done away with the ignition barrel and used a push start button instead?
It seems technically quite feasible, the need for the key fob obviously remains for the imobiliser, just the physical key would become redundant - given the key flick does tend to fail now and then it would be no bad thing to do away with it

Best
Razz

 

[conaero]

I would be interested yes.

Suppose the question is where would you put it?

Centre consul would be the typical place for it?

 

[Razz]

I would be interested yes.

Suppose the question is where would you put it?

Centre consul would be the typical place for it?

There is a cluster of three buttons (the options bitton and + -) with a dummy hole - this would be an option albeit obscure from view - btw I have used that slot for the on off button for my exhaust valve solenoid.

 

[Mattp]

Interesting idea, but what the steering lock? The push button cars have this electrically powered, the lock on my QPV is operated by turning the key.

 

[safrane]

Great idea...so good they put one on the GS!

 

[CatmanV2]

Unless you move the antenna, you're still going to have to put the key in the lock.
Simple way is use the key to engage ACC then use a push button (or relay) to short the AVV (I think) terminals. This will disengage the steering lock
I did this on the 116 when the barrel started failing.

No idea what the GS button is like, but it's not going to be an automated type start (i.e. press the button and the car deals with everything), but the starter motor will engaged as long as the button is pushed down. Also you'll need to turn the key to stop the engine. (Is the GS a start / stop button, or just start?)

C

 

[Zep]

I would like this too, the start button on the GS was a bit more special. It would be the same, key in and to the on position, press button to engage starter. It’s not too tricky to wire, but finding the spot for the button is the challenge.

 

[Wanderer]

Could put a pretend button on the centre console and press it at the same time as turning the key?

Job done.

 

[conaero]

The issue you will have to get over is a signal back to the starter button so you can’t activate if once going. Seems like some software might be needed.

 

[Wanderer]

Could put a pretend button on the centre console and press it at the same time as turning the key?

Job done.

I used to turn my Alfa 166 headlights on manually in the tunnels in Leeds cos I didn't have the automatic ones every other car seemed to have, and I'm not even joking!

That's how saaaad I am.

 

[Zep]

The issue you will have to get over is a signal back to the starter button so you can’t activate if once going. Seems like some software might be needed.

If you could find a feed that is live only when the engine is running you could do it with a relay. Or, using a latching timer relay, you could make it so the feed from the button is cut off 10 seconds after the first operation and will only work again when the ignition is cycled.

 

[Razz]

I think the right type of button that is configurable to match all the key stages as a minimum, having had a look at the wiring from the barrel my a level physics would point to an additional relay, perhaps connected to the ECU. If my a level physcis fails me I can always phone my friends who has an ology of some sort.
I think i feel a mission coming on...

 

[CatmanV2]

There are plenty kits available on ebay. I'm just a little 'nervous'

C

 

[midlifecrisis]

Use the ICE button, I bet none of you have used that one much and so you won't miss it!

 

[Zep]

Use the ICE button, I bet none of you have used that one much and so you won't miss it!

You’re right, I don’t have one!

 

[Navcorr]

I can always phone my friends who has an ology of some sort.

Got an ology - must be a scientist then …

 

[midlifecrisis]

You’re right, I don’t have one!

Really the GS doesn't have one? The Coupe (4220) and the GT Sport Auto does... what about the GTS?

 

[Hurricane52]

Are start buttons a bit passé? My Hurricane has had one since 1952...

 

[zagatoes30]

I discussed this with Emblem once and I think they had done it or at least knew how to do it on a 4200 but only with putting the key in first and turnign to first position and then press the start button. They reused the Auto or ICE button as neither are used in the real world

 

[Ewan]

I always found the start button on the MCV a little silly, given that you still needed to insert the key. Start buttons are only worthwhile when the key fob is automatically detected and no actual key is required. But if that could be arranged for my GC-MC for sensible money, count me in.