This is a how-to for an aftermarket "Engine Start" button, it is not for the Right Hand Drive 'Mazda' version, just any old add-on button.

I used an S2000 Honda button, from ebay, about $35. ( Yeah, I know, Honduh! Ricearoni! Not kewl dude! Save it.....)

There are five pins, back view, left to right -

1-not used
2-not used
3-ground
4-power from lighter
5-power to clutch switch/start relay

Since I put the button in the hole for the lighter socket, I used the lighter's power and ground, and ran the signal wire back under the dash.....

S

The signal wire needs to go to the starter relay, and there are four or five options for that......

A-(Clutch still has to be pushed, key AND button start) - join the 'white/blue' wire on the lower clutch switch, (the one that makes contact to stop you starting in gear.) This keeps the switch in the circuit, meaning you still have to push the clutch to start.

B- (Clutch not needed, key AND button work) - join the 'green/red/white' wire, bypassing the clutch stomp, and allowing the car to possibly chug away in gear. (If you leave the connector OFF the switch, ONLY the button works.)

C- (Clutch not needed, key won't work) - Cut the 'green/red/white' wire off at the connector and splice into it, sending the new button's signal to the starter, this becomes the only way to start up.

D- (Clutch needs to be pushed, only button starts) - join the 'white/blue' wire at the connector and cut it further up, cutting the key signal. This keeps the switch in the circuit, meaning you still have to push the clutch to start, when you push the button.

B is my preferred method, because there is no cutting, and you can always put the car back to stock, for a valet situation for example. You have the choice of leaving the connector OFF the switchto make the button the ONLY way to start.


here is the clutch switch in question, the other is to dis-able the cruise control when you clutch.

S

The finished item.....

The gear knob surround pulls straight up with 8 clips, and the lighter bin is held in by two clips, and two screws under that surround.

One hour, including recharging the old digi-cam!

S

Cute! I've never owned a car that had a start engine button, so what's the advantage of doing this mod besides the kewl factor? How do you start your car with it?

rx8cited

nice dude , always wanted to do this , but can you post this step by step ? I'm allitle slow on electronics lol

Very nice DIY, Stealth! :D

Cute! I've never owned a car that had a start engine button, so what's the advantage of doing this mod besides the kewl factor? Just the "kewl" factor, you still have to partially turn the key before pushing the start button, kills the whole thrill for me. It's still kind of neat, too much of a hassle for me though.

Were these cars originally supposed to have a start button? My uncle thought they did, and i've seen pictures that looked like they had them in the area of where the traction control button is? BTW my uncle is a salesman, though not at a Mazda dealership.

Just the "kewl" factor, you still have to partially turn the key before pushing the start button, kills the whole thrill for me. It's still kind of neat, too much of a hassle for me though.

WHAT?! Is there no solution where the partial keyturning is not needed. As brothervoodoo wrote: It takes away the entire cool-factor. Has anyone experienced this startbutton in real life, not just read about it?

My first RX-7 had a push start button right next to the keyhole (my uncle installed it). I had to turn the key to on and then press the start button. Hehe, but mine didn't have the cool factor cuz it wasn't in a place that people can view easily.

I bet someone inventive could figure out a way to go keyless, although you would need the key to be near the ignition due to the security chip inside it.

There are two circuites that are controlled by the ignition "switch" (the thing you stick the key into and turn). 1) Power to the car. 2) Power to the starter motor. The reason you have to stick a key in with conventional start buttons is that you need to turn the car's power on.

If you could get the key pulled out with the ignition in the ON position(or break the shank off inside the ignition while in the ON position) you could splice into the ignition wire to another button (could be placed next to DSC button) like someone used to bypass the DSC in another thread. This second switch would run in series with the key switch (down stream) and by placing this 2nd switch into the OFF position you would break the circuit. Placing the 2nd switch into the ON position would allow the circuit to continue as it was already intended to by the key switch. With the key ignition switch in the on position you would only need to flip your toggle button switch to "arm" the system (what I mean by arm, is reconnect the circuit created by turning a key in to the ON position) and push the installed start button as described by Stealth.

Keeping theives from stealing your car is the fact that your 8 needs to "sense" the microchip in the key (which you would have in your pocket or change compartment or ash tray, etc...)

The only downside would be if you killed your engine by means of stalling or running out of gas and got out without turning off your 2nd ignition switch/button you would run the risk of leaving the electricity on and killing your battery. This second button, by the way, is how you would turn off your car under normal circumstances.

I think this would be a killer mod. If I wasn't leasing my car, I'd do it. What do you think Stealth? Are you up to the challenge?

http://forum.mazda6tech.com/viewtopic.php?t=1723

The Mazdaspeed 6 will have keyless start.

I did this mod on my Miata a few years back. I too used an S2000 start button and fit it in the lighter hole. You still do have to put the key in and turn it, but to fire it up you hit the button. It's all in the "cool" factor I guess.


I still find it funny when I throw people my keys and they don't know how to start it when there is a BRB (big red button) starting them in the face! :D

Ummmm. The ad said keyless "entry". Much different than keyless "start".

It says "advanced keyless entry AND start system"

Just came across this thread, and wanted to share my work.
I have bought Mazda genuine optional parts from Japan, and installed it.
Its supposed to go under the trunk release switch of dash-board, but since brackets are made for right steering wheel, I decided to DIY it to fit inside the cigarette socket (which I don't use at all)
Notice I have also bought "non-smoker's box" inside the cigarette holder(?).

I have also installed automatic door lock/unlock, and rear foglights and such.

Thanks for looking. :)

Seriously, making the car start without the key is fairly trivial. I currently use a compustar system to accomplish the task in my 8. The thing I haven't figured out to do is how to kill the immobilization system. So I zip tied my valet key under the dash to the immobilizer sensor. You would have to take the dash apart to get to it though (for anyone who says I can't believe you left a key in your car) and even know where it was. Anyways, I am pretty sure you could also wire up the on sensor without having the key in and without using a compustar system. Might require another switch though.

Slavearm

They do the same thing with cadillacs, anytime you get a remote started on one, they put a valet key in the dash.

I would hesitate to wire a key or even just a chip, into the column.

You would lose 90% of your anti-theft protection. The'8 is REALLY easy to break into (less than a minute, by a U.K. tester!) and then it would be a simple 'pop-the-ignition' away from gone.

The average joyrider doesn't even know what an immobilizer is, he would just think he was lucky when he got the car started.

S

any idea on total cost? assuming if i got a shop to do this?

thanks!

I belive Mercedes has a keyless start system that has been out for a while...
They give you a card chip you carry in your wallet and you just walk up to the car and touch the sensor on the door handle to open/close the car..
to start the car, you touch the sensor on the shifter :)

im pretty sure thats just to start up to warm the engine. thats what i was told at the dealer at few weeks ago. you still have to use the key to do everything. but like i said i have no basis but a salesman and you all know the reliability of that sometimes!

Just came across this thread, and wanted to share my work.
I have bought Mazda genuine optional parts from Japan, and installed it.
Its supposed to go under the trunk release switch of dash-board, but since brackets are made for right steering wheel, I decided to DIY it to fit inside the cigarette socket (which I don't use at all)
Notice I have also bought "non-smoker's box" inside the cigarette holder(?).

I have also installed automatic door lock/unlock, and rear foglights and such.

Thanks for looking. :)

Where can you get this at? cool....

Just came across this thread, and wanted to share my work.
I have bought Mazda genuine optional parts from Japan, and installed it.
Its supposed to go under the trunk release switch of dash-board, but since brackets are made for right steering wheel, I decided to DIY it to fit inside the cigarette socket (which I don't use at all)
Notice I have also bought "non-smoker's box" inside the cigarette holder(?).

I have also installed automatic door lock/unlock, and rear foglights and such.

Thanks for looking. :)


What is the "non-smokers box" I had a dealer mention options for the ash tray, but she just meant it pulled out

I like the looks of the Engine start button.

The Toyota Avalon has a smartkey system with the driver does not even need to pull out keys to unlock or start the vehicle. It utilizes a Engine start button similar to this mod with some extra integration.
Here is a demo that explains the integration: http://www.toyota.com/vehicles/2005/avalon/key_features/smart_key_system.html

As for the key under the dash for remote start systems to disable the immobilizer anti-theft system. An installer should cut the key to prevent it from being used in the ignition if found. It is placed in a bypass switch box which only is engaged when the remote start is activated. Once the remote start is turned off the bypass disables signal from the cut key.

For this mod to be secure for a truly keyless start a person would have to install a smartcard type of system to have something to enable a signal to the bypass in order to use the Engine start button. Otherwise the bypass would always need to be on bypass and the car could be started by anyone. Which would make it a village car like some of the commercials where the keys are passed to the next person to use the car, except the keys would not need to be passed. Village bicycle concept: you see it not being used you can drive it.

Pretty cool!
I'm even more impressed with the "dynamic laser cruise control (http://www.toyota.com/vehicles/2005/avalon/key_features/dynamic_laser_cruisecontrol.html)"!

By the way Mazda is offering the same technology for the new MX-5 as the Toyota. It's an option.

Ok, can anyone tell me where I went wrong? I used the power source from the lighter but now the button won't work unless the headlights are on..... the button stays powered when the headlights are off and turns off when the headlights are on ... So I have light to the button during the day and no power at night which is opposite.... and I can only start the car when the headlights are on....

You must have tapped the power for the light that surrounds the lighter socket. I believe you need power that feeds the lighter socket. This is powered when the key is in the run position.

yup you were right :P

I have the Honda Start Engine button right in my hands. You wrote that there are 3 wires needed to be attached to the button. However, there are five connector pins on the back of the start engine button. Which are the ones that need to be connected?
Sorry for the blurry picture. It was done by a crappy webcam.

...I forgot to put the pictures in for that, there are two threads about it....

I think it is the last three from the left, in these pics. Red is 12v, blue is ground :rolleyes: yellow out to clutch switch.

:(
S

A few more questions:

1. How did you remove the plastic that holds the ashtray and the lighter? You wrote that is is held by clips. Do I need to just pull it? Do I need to use a screwdriver?

2. How did you fix the wires? Did you solder them?

"The gear knob surround pulls straight up with 8 clips, and the lighter bin is held in by two clips, and two screws under that surround."

Maybe I should type slower ;)

You need to take off your gear shift knob, lift the shifter plastic surround straight up (or pull up on the boot), then undo the two lighter/bin retaining screws, and pull free of the two clips.


S

There are good pictures in Gomez's thread about the short-shifter. That explains well how to remove the "gear knob surround".

I managed to install my engine start button. I had to use Dremel tool to make the lighter hole bigger, otherwise the button would not have fit.
The button emits a very faint red light. It can only be seen in total darkness. Is your button that dim, too?

Cs

The signal wire needs to go to the starter relay, and there are two or three options for that......

The signal can

A-join the 'white/ light green' wire on the lower clutch switch, (the one that makes contact to stop you starting in gear.) This keeps the switch in the circuit, meaning you still have to push the clutch to start, or you can

B- join the 'light green/red' wire, bypassing the clutch stomp, and allowing the car to chug away in gear, or

C- cut the 'LG/R' wire and just send the new switch's signal to the starter, this becomes the only way to start up.

here is the clutch switch in question, the other is to dis-able the cruise control when you clutch.

S

Here is the next problem:

There are two wires coming out of the lower clutch switch. One is green/red/white and the other is blue/white.

I tried to connect my start button to both of them by scraping the plastic off the wire and attach my wire with a crocodile clamp. Non of them worked. Do you know what the problem could be.

Sounds like wrong pin out.
1- Check that the start button sends out 12v when pushed, ign on.
2- Take power from a footwell fuse to the bottom clutch switch wires, one must work.

S

I am sorry but where and what is the footwell fuse?

Has anyone made this work beside Stealth_TL?

I am happy to say that I solved my problem. I had a faulty wire that caused the problem. Now I have a cool engine start button installed.
Thank you Stealth_TL. It took you 1 hour, it took me 2 days :(

There's one difference that I would like to share. I have two wires coming out of the clutch switch. If I connect the start engine button to the red/white/green wire, the engine starts without pushing the clutch. If I connect the button to the blue/white wire, nothing happens.

Csaba

so does the lighter hole need to be bigger for the start button to fit? or do u just plug it in the existing one? *confused*

(Good to see you "got 'er done!" faffy!)

The lighter hole has to be trimmed, just a little to fit the little reinforcing ridges on the back of the Honda button.

The trim does not affect the fit of the stock lighter, if you want to put it back.

S

thanks for the reply stealth...btw wat tools did you use to do the trimming?

I used a rechargeable Dremel grinder to open the hole, just a little, but a round file would do fine - there's not a lot to remove.

S

StealthTL, I bought an S2000 button from Ebay (from http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1,1&item=8001483857&sspagename=STRK%3AMEWN%3AIT) Button+Relè.
I have a 6MT Mazda Rx-8. Can you help me in installing it? I tried to install it but I didn't succes in it. I find these schemes (look pics).
1) I install the buttom: Connect 1 to 85 of relè.
2) Connect 2 to +12v
3) Connect 3 to ground (-pole)
Now the problem is the relè:
4) I connect 86 to ground
5) I connect 85 to button
6) witch wire shall I connect to 30 - 87a point?
7) Witch wire shall I connect to 87 pont?
I'd like to start the car either with the key either with the button
or
It it's impossible, only with the button excluding key.
I DON'T want push clutch to start the car! I have a manual Trasmission
Can you help me?

You are making this too complicated for yourself, and you are using the Honda instructions on a Mazda!

You don't need that relay.

Your harness is totally different than the one in your pictures.

The "back of the switch" picture is all you need - the wire marked '2' is your power, from the lighter.
The '3' wire goes to a good ground.
...and the '1' wire goes to the switch at the bottom of your clutch travel, with the white plunger.

The 'green/red/white' wire goes to the starter relay, if you cut it the new switch will be the only way to start, if you just splice in, the key still works, and if you splice into the other(blue/white) wire, you would still need to push the clutch in.

Done, no relays, no farting around. :o

S

ok I'll try but how can I splice in that wires?

You could use one of these, if you have never used one you should get a mechanic to do it.

S

I look in european version and I cannot find switch at the bottom of your clutch travel.
Maybe it isn't installed! :-(


If I find it (Switch) I could connect red-green-white wire to number 1 wire of button with a "rubaccorente" (what you show me in picture). But in European Mazda Rx-8 there isn't the switch :-(

Yes, if you have a Euro version, you won't have the clutch switch.....we have to press the clutch in to start.

Your starter relay wire will be 'green/red/white' or the 'blue/white' right from the key to the relay.

Please post which it is when you find out....

S

look my clucth and the back of my start group, where is the wire that I need?

Lookind this picture It seem that I must connect number 1 of button to A cable of this connector. Is it right?
And where is this connector?

I don't mean to be rude but, are you sure you don't want to take this to someone more familiar with electrical work? Not doing so could cause you all kinds of headaches in the future. Just my 2 cents.

ok here a zoom on ignition connector

I think that the connector is this:


Somebody Can help me, where join the number 1 of S2000 button?

Thommino, it looks like you found the right wire....your last picture shows a blue/white wire in the ignition switch connector - you dont even need to cut into it, just push your starter wire into the connector till it touches the metal, to test, then put a proper connector in when you are sure. :)

US cars have different colors to the clutch switch, then blue/white to the starter relay, looks like yours is just blue/white all the way, simple.

S

Great! It works. Thank you very much!

As Homer says -
WooHooo!
S

ok, I plan to do this so here is my question:

I want to have to turn the key, push the clutch in and hit the start button. But I don't want the key to turn the car on. Can this be done? If I understand correctly all I need to do is tap my wire into the blue/white wire at the clutch switch. And also where is the clutch switch do I need to remove any panels from below or should I be able to see it by getting underneath the steering column?

Does the S2000 switch have a light?

Thanks

Clutch switch is at the bottom of the clutch pedal travel, see post #48 above for a pic.

Your proposed wiring is ALMOST right - the red/white/green wire at the clutch is the 'starter' wire, you would CUT and SPLICE into the other (blue/white) input wire, from the key. Then you would have it the way you want - need to depress the clutch, but the key won't work.

The S2000 switch has a light, but it has a little tinted cover that makes it very dim - if you take it to pieces to remove the cover it can get tricky, little springs etc. but quite do-able. :D

S

im tryin to do the same bypass, but with a remote starter. i already have the starter wires connected to the ignition harness (starter, 12v, acc and ignition) havent tested yet since everything is still apart. do u know what i woudl need to run to the clutch switch?

im guessing the start button doesnt need the acc/ignition wire since the key is turned anyways? so should i run the starter wire to the clutch? or since im already tapping the starter wire is the clutch already bypassed?

actually i see i connected the starter wire from the remote start to the W/L (white blue) at the ignition harness. should i instead run the starter wire to the clutch green/red/white wire?

Depends if you want to bypass the clutch push or not.

The Light blue/W wire comes from the key, the R/G/W goes to the starter relay, if you tap in there it bypasses the clutch switch.

S

ya i do want to bypass the clutch so the remote start will work without me in the car.

i''ll try taking my starter wire from the remote start and tap into the RGW wire at the switch... and i think this switch eventually sends a blue/white wire back up to the ignition?

i wonder how the actual circuit is @ the clutch? is it turn the key.. wire goes to clutch, if pressed in it connects the RGW to the blue/white.. then back up to the ignition? tho i dont see how this would actually bypass a clutch by tapping into the RGW.

The LB/W wire comes from the key, then R/G/W goes to the starter relay, if you tap in there it bypasses the clutch switch.


One more time - R/G/W is to the starter relay.

Power from key, thru Blue/White, to clutch switch, R/G/W wire goes to starter.

S

I DID IT !!!

Thank you :D :D

pics...

Well stealth, you'll be happy to know I did it with no problems what so. about 1 hr of work to include cutting the hole in teh radio pannel, thanks a bunch man!

I think I recall that the new vette has only a fob that you keep in your pocket. As you walk up to the car, it unlocks the doors automatically. then you get in and hit the start button. thats my two cents about completely keyless start. If i were to do the start button mod in my AT, what differences would there be with the wiring?

-Steakboy42

Depends do you need to press the brake to start the car? (nevermind that is to put it in gear right?)
For the manual we have to bypass the clutch depress to start. You definitely wouldn't have to bypass that.

It should be easier for you, less wiring.

There are more and more cars adopting that system of the transponding card to unlock and start the car without having to have the key in hand.

I wonder how long the transponders last though. Seems like there should be a failsafe in case it stopped working. Backup key?

I believe the batteries recharge via kinectics. That actually reminds me of a funny story. A guy locked his keys in his vette, not the C6 the one right before that, z06 i think. he called a company to unlock his car. when the guy showed up, he found the keys were still hanging from the ignition. so he walked up to the car and rocked it hard enough to make the fob on the keyring rock back and forth and the car unlocked. i bet the owner felt like an idiot.

so, i probably need to run the wire that the manual guys ran to the clutch to the ignition like euro manuals need to.

-Steakboy42

I don't see why you would have to send the bypass to the ignition.

The clutch press to start the car is a safety feature so it is not in gear when starter engages, car lurching forward.

When you start the car (automatic transmission) you just have to turn your key right?

I don't see why you would have to send the bypass to the ignition.

The clutch press to start the car is a safety feature so it is not in gear when starter engages, car lurching forward.

When you start the car (automatic transmission) you just have to turn your key right?

Yeah, I just turn the key and it starts, but if i were to just hook up the power and ground wires, it would just be a pretty light. The third wire would have to hook up to the starter some way. My guess would be through the ignition wiring. Please correct me if I'm wrong.

-Steakboy42

That's right Steakboy.

Have you gotten the kit?

It should have instructions on what needs to be hooked up.

I haven't done this because I am going to install a Compustar 2-way Remote start and alarm. I have installed at least 15 remote starts and it is very similar to setting up the push button start. Except I will have the push button on me. :)

The push button start has a decent kewl factor.

I like the one in the cigarette lighter spot. Very double O-7.

Haven't gotten the kit yet, still looking for the right one. I'm actually still deciding if I'm gunna do it. I think I will, at least eventually. I'll update after I do it.

-The Steak

Just came across this thread, and wanted to share my work.
I have bought Mazda genuine optional parts from Japan, and installed it.
Its supposed to go under the trunk release switch of dash-board, but since brackets are made for right steering wheel, I decided to DIY it to fit inside the cigarette socket (which I don't use at all)
Notice I have also bought "non-smoker's box" inside the cigarette holder(?).

I have also installed automatic door lock/unlock, and rear foglights and such.

Thanks for looking. :)

How much did the switch cost? I've been looking all over the internet for it. Cant find anyone that sells it!

I'm a little confused.. does this mean that you guys have found a way to push-button start without a key being present?

I'm a little confused.. does this mean that you guys have found a way to push-button start without a key being present?
No.

Thanks- I didn't feel like reading through all the postings over again. Unfortunately to me this seems like a giant waste aside from the "neat-o" factor. It seems, work and parts aside, that you have to do more work to use the button than just to turn a key.

graveyard digging...

I belive Mercedes has a keyless start system that has been out for a while...
They give you a card chip you carry in your wallet and you just walk up to the car and touch the sensor on the door handle to open/close the car..
to start the car, you touch the sensor on the shifter

im pretty sure thats just to start up to warm the engine. thats what i was told at the dealer at few weeks ago. you still have to use the key to do everything. but like i said i have no basis but a salesman and you all know the reliability of that sometimes!


well, i've driven the family's S class. you indeed carry a card, when you press (not touch) a small button on the door handle, the car locks. in order to open the door, you gently pull the handle out, and the door will unlock itself within 1 second. (if you pull too fast, it has no time to unlock, and you have to do it again a bit slower)

however, on to the ignition. on the shifter (automatic in the S i talk about) there is a button (doesn't look like one), which is looking like the top of a normal shifter. if you have the card on you, you need not have a key. you press it once fast, it switches to "on" position. you press it for 1-2 seconds, the engine starts and you're ready to go. you have to press the break pedal for it to work, though, otherwise it won't start at all.

i had a.... "dream" :P of copying that ideea, like prying the top of our shifter free, place the ignition button underneath, and make the wiring go down along the shifter like the wires of the illuminated knob some of us have. quite a stealthy location, i'd say, since there is really no button visible around. not to mention, i always love the "fighter aircraft" feel when i start the S class and the huge V comes to life.. i'd love for a couple rotors to come to life in a similar manner.

the problem i couldn't figgure would be a keyless card. i would really, really dislike to have my car wired up for ignition anytime. perhaps there is an opportunity to disable the contact when you arm the alarm? (alarm armed, no current gets to igntion-> would be similar to no key inserted->usless button, even if you know it)

just a couple thoughts thrown over an old thread


p.s.- there is also a key location in the S, which is used if you don't want to press the button. works like a conventional key, although it's completely electronic. but it really doesn't feel that great :P

mclaren slr has a simialr aproach, the diference being that the top of the shifter is even more like a fighter's missle laungher. you have to flip a security "top" up to reveal a clear button underneath.
frankly, i'd rather have the stealthy look of the S class anyday.

sounds like you need to drive the "S" and stop dreaming.

i hate the S, frankly. it's too dead of a car. no feelings. steering's too light. car's too heavy. i'd sell the S and buy 2 8s and turbocharge one of them, and have much more fun, and also have some spare cash too. but i can't.. family also involved members with different feelings towards drving and feeling the road at the same time :P aaah, well... i have a spare lit shiftknob..... might as well destroy that one in pursuing my dreams... there should be a way they placed the leds there, no?

Not a problem to do the shifter button mod, they're sold on the 'Bay.

A little ugly, but do-able. (Like myself. :uhh: )


S

ewww!!! reminds me of german WW2 grenades...

Hi guys, I am trying to do the start button on my auto, can u please help me with the wiring and also where i can get the button....or kits?

Here's an overlooked advantage, if you connect it past the clutch interlock.

If you have a 6-speed and are stalled or out of gas in harm's way.
You can stick it in gear & crank your way a few feet out of the hazard.

I'm still semi-confused as to what this would mean if you have to bypass the clutch to start the 6 speeds. Does that mean the car needs to be in neutral before you push the start button so it doesn't die in gear? Or would you have to have your foot on the brake while in first gear to start it so it doesn't lurch forward? Sorry I've just never heard of bypassing the clutch switch so i'm confused

You have to press the clutch to crank the motor, even if its in neutral. So you'd have to press the clutch to push the button, or bypass that element and make sure you always check your shifter position before you push the button, because the one time you forget to check..... ouch.

lol I knew it couldn't just be as simple as bypassing the clutch and start like an automatic lol Now the debate is.....bypass the clutch...or not bypass the clutch....is it worth the risk to bypass the clutch?

well you have to be in the car to push the button, so you might as well push the clutch too?

True enough. I was just looking for another reason to install this kit other than the cool factor and was thinking the clutch bypass would push it over the edge on whether or not to do it. If I have to push the clutch, and turn the key anyway makes my decision on whether or not to go through with it a little more difficult

Well shit you could always bypass the clutch and not install the button. Alternately (i haven't been reading this thread and i don't know why i'm suddenly getting emails about it, but i haven't read the other 7 pages) maybe you can switch the clutch switch to the gearbox? I thought I read once that the transmission has some kind of indicator of weather or not its in neutral. If you could hook the ignition up to that instead, then you wouldn't have to push the clutch, but you'd still have the safety of your car not driving away. That what I want to do. Only I don't want the button on my dash, I want it on my keychain :-)

Someone else was talking about something like that in this thread, but instead of using the transmission indicator they wanted to install the push button kit, bypass the clutch, and use a remote start system to start there car without depressing the clutch, using the key, or pushing the button. They didn't have it planned out but they may still be throwing around ideas. Maybe we'll see a DIY thread for it soon

I believe the person doing the setup with the remote start was irfan. His post was from a year ago so i'm sure if you PM him and he accomplished it he could give you the details if thats what you're talking about

hey i just got an email update saying this thread was alive... i did install a remote start into my 6spd last year.. worked perfectly til the remote starter main unit fried when i had to jump the car once.. damn headlights.

anyways.. what i did was set it so the clutch was bypassed meaning you did not have to press the clutch to start the car. yes u have the danger of the car lurching forward (thats why that clutch press safety feature is there in the first place). my remote starter system had a manual mode which meant you had to leave te car in neutral, let off the brake, turn the car off. to make sure the car was in neutral the car would keep running until you got out and closed the doors.. that way if it was in gear.. well ud know about it. i had a compustar system.

now that winter is rolling around i am getting another remote starter.. maybe a hornet 654t. this will not have that mode where the car stays running (neither does the automatic version of the compustar) ,, so it is more risky. however there is a wire coming off the transmission.. i think its gray.. under the car.. and this indicates if the car is in gear or not (so it can turn the cruise control off if u push the car out of gear).. this wire will run into a relay (or the remote starter if it has a similar feature).. and then i will have it so the car only starts when the car is in neutral.. no neutral, no start.

i did not like the compustar's manual mode ("reservation" mode) .. not because it kept the car running til u shut the door.. but because if u left something in the car and had to get it after the mode was set, it would cancel out and you would have to start the car, and reset the reservation mode. in the dead of winter in an rx8 this means sitting in your car for 5-10 minutes until the car warms up so you don't flood your engine. very annoying.

but anyways.. for those that are doing a push button start.. you NEED to bypass the clutch. that simple. additionally i would wire a relay that killed the push button power until the car was in neutral. i don't remember all the wiring schemes right now since it was a year ago but let me know if you have any questions.

I recall a few posts from this and other threads wanting to be able to start the car with the "start button" without having to turn the ignition knob( i am speaking of the FOB key models). Seems to me this would require one more switch to be added(maybe next to DSC?) that was a 3 position switch.. off, acc, and run(this way you could turn the 8 off too). I dont know the working of this at all but shouldnt it be fairly easy to tap all the ignition wires and hook this up?

Or did i completely miss the posts giving these directions already?

its easy to tap the ignition wires.. they are all located on the left of the steering column in a molex connector.. its tough to undo tho... i think a red safety latch too.. just remove the steering wheel column housing and you will see the large plug back there behing the lights stalk.

now if you want to start the car with JUST a start button.. you would need to wire a relay of some sort (dont ask me exactly how)... that would trip the ACC wires first and HOLD in that position (i think they sell relays that do this), and then the IGN wires temporarily (dunno, im sure u can get some relay with a delay feature in it somehow), and then revert back to just holding the ACC circuit closed/on. I cant remember if we need an ACC2 or IGN2 wire tho.

Additionally when you hit the button it will need to provide 12V to an immobilizer bypass that has a key inside it (i used the universal model from DEI.. forget the model number,.. something like 588U or something.. get the one with the U at the end). you will need to put a key in this module and hide it somewhere too. without this bypass the car will never start.

also, if its a stick shift.. bypass the clutch.

i shouldn't need to put a key in there for the immobilizer as i have the key FOB already...just need to still carry the key with me right?

also i am looking at using a 3 position rocker switch (off, acc, run) and the actual momentary start button.

for a push start u will need to still get the key into the ignition then since the radio frequency has short range

i shouldn't need to put a key in there for the immobilizer as i have the key FOB already...just need to still carry the key with me right?

also i am looking at using a 3 position rocker switch (off, acc, run) and the actual momentary start button.

What year RX-8 do you have?

If it is an 04 or 05 you will need to still use the key to the run position and use the start button to start the car.

The key also unlocks the steering wheel. :eek:

i have an 06 shinka. so you're saying it might be possible with an 06 to have a the ignition replaced with rockers and the start button?

I keep bringing this back from the dead cause my service guys cant tell me if its doable or not. Re-cap: '06 Shinka.. i have the keyless ignition (key card). I want to know if its possible to to avoid using/touching the ignition knob at all. What i want is a rocker for Off/ACC/On and the start button, as this will allow me to start and shutdown the motor W/O touching the steering colum. The 2 BIG things I'm not getting or concerned about are:

1. Why would i still need to "get the key into the ignition then since the radio frequency has short range" ??? I dont put the key in the ignition already, its keyless, and i can start my car with the key card in the backseat.

2. Whats with the immobilizer? Why would i need to get a universal thing to bypass it? I'm not changing anything but the wiring location from which the ignition is connected, right? I would assume my immob. works off the key card radio signals like the ignition?

Last question.... 4 years to supercharge made a good point... what about steering wheel lock? if i CAN/DO rewire(actually just tap in) the ignition to a rocker/rockers switch, will that still unlock my steering wheel?

I want to do this really badly, but am not willing to go at it, just to see if it can work.. I am SURE i cant be the only one who has thought of/wanted/tried to completely bypass the "start knob"

The steering wheel lock is mechanical. :sad:

You can do the start button and will only have to tap into the ignition wires, the system disables if the fob is not in the car.

What you will have to do is start the car with the start button and then turn the ignition to the run position to disable the steering wheel lock and keep it running.

If you want to do a remote start you will have to do a relayed bypass for the Transponder system. Pretty sure that is the type of starter kill system that is stock.

Then the same thing you will need to turn the "key" to the run position before stepping on the brake. Otherwise the car will shutoff.


:cool:

I dont know how the keyless is on the 06 shinkas.. you never have to put a key in? just turn a plastic knob? that knob may either mechanically (probably) or electrically unlock the steering wheel. if electrically you can most likely bypass it.. if mechanical you would need to turn the knob to get the wheel to move. i was almost certain that a started car will still have the wheel locked even with it on until the key was inserted or the ignition knob turned.

The only way I would hook it up would be using the fob in your pocket and not bypassing the security for the car. What does that do for the start button, well it would function but be mostly for looks or preference. Like I said the ignition would still need to be turned to the run position before applying the brake (which would stop the brain for the start button).

Are you looking to do the remote start also or the start button?

ok the steering lock on mine IS electronic, as i can push my 'knob' in and i here it click unlocked, but if i hold it there for more than about 10 seconds without turning the 'knob' foreward it clicks again and steering wheel is locked again. Irfan, yes you are right, i have a plastic 'knob' that i turn, it can snap off in case of backup key use. mot looking for remote start, or to bypass any security built in other than steering lock, i will still cary my key in my pocket, just a preference to have it done this way

Hi I'm just wondering whether it is possible to use the start button to start my car pc. Anyone knows how to hotwire it?

bumpity bump bump...

still havent been able to talk to mazda mechanics, but i am looking to find a way to use rocker switch(s) and the start button to completely bypass the ignition knob. ie.. flip a rocker to the ACC position, flip another to ON, push start button... flip rockers to shut down. I have the '06 shinka with the keycard, i dont have to put a key in the ignition, only turn the knob.. i'd like to keep it keyless and have the security of still having to have the keycard inside the vehicle for the rockers to work.... any ideas anyone?

If a person doesn't have the key card in the car does it still allow a person to turn the knob on the car to start it?

So I read this thread a couple months ago and have been thinking since how to work this out with a switch just as you are talking Paulmasoner. The past few days I finally got serious and looked into this a lot more. I have figured it out in my head every part except for the rfid in my key. I have an 04 so I don't have the keycard, sadly. That would make it easier.

Now I haven't actually pulled off the console around the steering wheel, which is why I say I have figured it out in my head. If we can get to the wires coming directly off the ignition switch then theoretically this would work. From a pic posted early in the thread it seems we can.

I have been thinking about using more then one switch rather then one multi position switch but it is the same method. There would be a switch for ACC and one for ON. Then the start button.

For the 06 you don't need to worry about having the key in the system as we do for the 04 so this should work for you.

The diagram I have attached is one posted earlier and I am not positive where it came from. Hopefully it is correct but if not you will still get the idea.

Looking at this diagram more, I think there should be 3 switches. Since 'E' and 'F' go to seperate things in the ON and START positions I don't think they should be tied together as I don't know how that would effect the car.

When I say connect I mean they should be attached to the wire rather than the wire being cut, and the switch going between each end. (these will be parallel circuits) This way you will be able to use either the knob or the switch/button.

The first switch is for the ACC:
Switch 1:
One wire connects to 'E'
Second wire connects to 'D'

When this switch is flipped on, you would have power to all of your accesories just as you would if the key is turned to ACC. You would NOT need this switch on when starting or running the car.

The next two switches are for ON:
Switch 2:
One wire connects to 'E'
Second wire connects to both 'D' and 'C'
Switch 3:
One wire connects to 'F'
Second wire connects to 'B'

When both of these switches are on, the car would be on and ready to be started. Both of these would need to be on when starting or running the car. Flipping both of these off is how you would turn off the car.

Start Button:
One wire connects to 'F'
Second wire connects to 'A'

When this button is pressed it will send power through to the starter and start the car as long as both ignition switches are on.

If you are looking at the diagram and wondering what about the 'E' to 'C' connection in the start position, I don't think it is significant. The reason I say that is because the Switch 2 would keep that connection. Since people have done a starter button with the key to the ON position it would be the same thing.

The only other requirement to this setup is having the keycard in the car for the 06. Nothing should need to be changed or wired with regards to that system.

The problem I am running into with my 04 is the rfid chip in my key. It can only be read when it is close to the sensor which is wrapped around the key slot. I found a Immoblizer system bypass made by DEI that someone mentioned before and that would work, but it still requires me to leave a key in the car and screw over my security.

For those who don't know, basically your key goes in a box that has a reciever for the chip in the key. The box then gets tied into the wire that connects the antenna around the key hole, to the actually system. When power is supplied to the box, it picks up the id from the key and sends it to the immobilizar just as the antenna would. In a remote start setup, power you be supplied briefly just to get the car started. For the 04 guys, we could use a switch in between the box and a power source (lighter, etc.) to supply it power and have the id sent to the immobilizar. but the problem is once again, then you have half your security sitting on a switch. It would be basically the same as leaving a key zip-tied to your console. Someone just needs to flip the switches and hit the start button.

Sorry for the rather long length of this post, this is the first time I have typed all this stuff out so I hope it isn't to confusing and it works for you guys. If you have any recommendations for the key issue please let me know. I have been researching the smart keys to see if there is any way to get one installed, or a simple version of those that I could use to power the box with the key in it as opposed to just a switch.

Aero8, Thanks for the great read, this cleared up some of the minorissues of wiring i had thought of... I was also more recently considering 2 switches, much like we have in the fire trucks i drive OFF/ACC and OFF/ON

4 years to supercharge... no. if i dont have they key within a couple feet of the door, it wont unlock with the little black button on the handle, similarly, if the key card isnt inside, or even if its too far away ie trunk, or back seat.... then the "knob" will not turn..... i have realized, that when i sit down, and push the "knob" directly into the steering column, i can hear a small click sound.... if i do not turn the "knob" to at least the ON position within a few(10 or so) seconds, it clicks back, and "knob" is once again locked, as if the key card wasnt there. this doesnt require me to get out, and back in, only to re-depress the "knob" when i crank.

I still am trying to schedule with one of the mechanics who was kind enough to offer to get out their books, and look it over with me for ideas... until then, your guys help is MUCH appreciated, thank you all

Paulmasoner, you're welcome.

I pulled of the console yesterday and very briefly looked at the ignition switch wiring. It will be slightly awkward to work with but at least I can get to it. I will hopefully be working on this this weekend. I am trying to get the bypass but that may not happen until next week. My goal is to at least get the switches and button wired so that if anything all I would need to do is put the key in the slot until I can get the immobilizer bypass installed. I have thoght of a few places for the switch for the bypass that are still easily accessible but not completely obvious, I will update if have a chance to get anything done.

Sounds good... there is another thread somewhere that discusses places to put the immobilizer bypass box. A thread about remote start if i remember correctly. If I come across it I'll point you that direction, perhaps it will spark ideas for you.

thanks that'd be great if you find it, i may search a little larter. I am going to pepboys to find some switches and I have a bid in for the DEI unit on ebay, should have one later in the week.

Alright...Finally had a chance to get some work done. I will try to post pics tomorrow.

Sadly, my key still has to be in the ignition. #$@%$

Done with the rant for now...so here is what I did:

Just as described above, I used three switches, one for ACC and two for ON. do to limited supplies I have a momentary switch for the starter rather than a button. All are mounted inside the ashtray casing (try is removed, along with the lighter. Rather then trying to describe how the switches are aligned I will post pics tomorrow or early this week.

Current problems:

I still have not recieved the immobilizar bypass therefore the key is still required to be in or in front of the ignition when starting the vehicle.

I have determined that the steering wheel lock on my 04 seems to be mechanical. this is where the $#@%$@ comes in to play.

So here is what I know:

I can flip the ACC switch on, and the accesories work as they should.

For the Immobilizar (transponder in key thing)...Before I flip the switches that correspond to ON, I have to have the key sitting in or held right in front of the key hole. After I flip the switches and the key symbol goes away I can take the key away and the car will run fine.

That means that when I get the immobilizar bypass the that part of it will be set.

The only thing I will be looking into (hopefully tomorrow) will be the sterring wheel lock. currently, to unlock the wheel I need to insert the Key and turn it to ACC, I can the turn the key back to lock and the steering wheel will stay unlocked. as soon as I remove the key I hear the lock fall and once the steering wheel is turned counter clockwise some, it locks. So I will be trying to figure out how it actually locks the wheel and if I can remove that part of it, we shall see. I will update with pics eventually.

any updates? this seems really interesting. sounds like you are going at it really determined, hope it works.

Sorry for the lack of updates, I got sick and it knocked me out for a few days and haven't had a chance to get back to it. I got the immobilizar bypass, but it didn't come with the antenna ring so now I am trying to get that also. I still haven't lokked into the steering wheel lock either...yeah definately a lack of updates...eventually something will happen with it.

I am off work for the next few days, and I am goig to try to pull my steering column shroud away and take a look at the steering lock. It will probably take a few sessions of me looking at it and thinking to even figure out how it works, lol. But thats my BIG hang up with the key card i think

If you figure it out, please let us know, that is my hang up also at this point, and haven't gone back out to look at it yet.

:banghead: i still havent pulled my wheel apart to look at the lock, i got hit in a parking lot a bit back and my car is still being repaired. :cussing: anyway, when i get it back, i will immediately be ordering the start button and a couple rocker/toggle switches. as they are being shipped i will get to checking out the locking mechanism on my ignition. there WILL be a way around it, even if it is mechanical. At this point i am waiting to get the car back, and trying to find the switches that i want. i have seen a few that i like on here before but am having trouble finding them now. If anyone knows where they are at it would be great! I particularly liked the one i saw that looked like it "belonged" in the blanks next to the DSC/TCS button.

http://www.rx8club.com/showthread.php?t=74885&page=1&pp=15&highlight=rocker+panel+switch

The rocker panel switch in the pic is something very much like what i want. I pm'd the user about where to find ones like it. But anyone else who can chime in would be appreciated.

honestly, try radioshack, pepboys, and autozone. I got my switches between radioshack and pepboys. there are a lot of choices and you may be able to find what you are looking for.

Sorry to hear about your car, I have also been puting off the steering wheel mechanism (it is currently -10 degrees)

still not close to getting my car returned. but i DID hear some word about the steering lock. it sounds as if, it may be the same as old school ones still, just a little metal block/tab/rectangular thingy to remove!! :rock:

btw here is the car... what you cant see: 1. severe wheel misalignment 2. trunk floor foldin/wrinkled 3. the exhaust is fucked, thank GOD ins said OEM is $502 and Rosenthal is selling MS for $550

wow, sorry about your car, but at least you can get the MS Exhaust! :)

Thanks for the update about the steering lock. When the temp gets out of the under 32 F range I will try to get back to this.

AERO!! my button finally came in. thats about it. i STILL dont have my car back from the shop. they are shooting for next week.

wow this is(maybe) gonna be a doozy to install as i have never looked at the wiring in the car before, and obviously the instructions are in japanese.

too bad i couldnt find a translated guide yet...

Where did you get your button from?

mazdaparts.com

i have a newbie question... (nice install btw) what modifications happen to the slot where u normally insert the key? ie do u still have to insert the key to push the start button, or do u replace the key hole w/ a stub? any pix?

AERO!! my button finally came in. thats about it. i STILL dont have my car back from the shop. they are shooting for next week.

wow this is(maybe) gonna be a doozy to install as i have never looked at the wiring in the car before, and obviously the instructions are in japanese.

too bad i couldnt find a translated guide yet...
Awesome! well excecpt for the car not being done yet. are you getting a discount for it taking this long?? I would be pissed!

You'll be ok with the wiring once you get under there. it is a pain, but not horrible :)


Detrich, that is what paulmasoner and i have been working on. as of now I think we are the only two actually trying to make it completely keyless.

nothing phyiscally changes to the key hole. as it stands right now:

04-05 models:
right now, I have to put the key in, and turn it to disengage the steering lock. I can then turn the key to off, but leave the key in the ignition so that the steering wheel lock stays disengaged. once you remove the key it engages.

The transponder part of the key is also required, but i have a box that should remove this issue, i just haven't installed it.

06+:
These cars have the smart key system, so the transponder device that I have for mine is not needed. they do however, have the steering wheel lock issue.

since it is a knob rather than a key, I am not quite sure how it differs from the 04-05 but that is the current problem.


So, once paulmasoner gets his car back he is going to look into it.
Since it is nice out here again, I may dive back into this tomorrow. I am having my brake handle replaced tomorrow morning, and all the wires to my switches are disconnected so they don't mess anything up. when I am reattaching them ti will be a good time to try to finish it up.

Thats a cool mod, will be awesome if its near the DSC button

got my car back today. LOVE the MS exhaust. gotta put my box and amp in first tomorrow and make a floor/window for my amp. then i'm gonna work on the steering lock. i am putting off the start button till i get the steering lock done. i need some time to brainstorm how i am gonna get the JDM start button in the center of the console under the volume knob. the brackets etc that it comes with are gonna be uselesss.

i saw one guy on here that put the JDM button in that blank panel, like i want, i need to find him and ask how he fabbed a bracket to hold it in place

awesome, does the ms exhaust drone a lot? or is it tolerable when cruising/

Mine is in the shop this morning, so hopefully when I get it back I will change to my summer wheels and hopefully get into the steering lock depending on time.

its quiet when cruising, it drones some under mild throttle depending on load. but when you get on it, it just sings.

gonna be a bit before i get to my start button. had issues today getting my sub in. i think my amp may be dead. couldnt get anything out of it, so i checked and rechecked everything, then i tohught well maybe its the LOC... so i hooked up to the hilevel inputs, nothing.

anyone know how to test the signal coming out of an amp with a multimeter?

BTW in the actual S2000 you also have to insert the key, and turn it to the ON pos before utilizing the START button...

yeah, thats why this will be cooler when/if it ever works out

you know after reading this entire thread, it came to me that it would be possible to rewire, the garage door buttons on the rearview mirror to do the exact same thing.

just a thought.

you know after reading this entire thread, it came to me that it would be possible to rewire, the garage door buttons on the rearview mirror to do the exact same thing.

just a thought.

wow, that is an awesome idea for keeping it totally hidden. Although that would be a lot of work to take apart half the interior to get to the roof.

that IS an AMAZING idea! IF(not likely) i ever change my radio and lose my start button, i will most definately do just that! ^

you know after reading this entire thread, it came to me that it would be possible to rewire, the garage door buttons on the rearview mirror to do the exact same thing.

just a thought.


Hmm a person should install a fail safe to prevent the starter from being engaged after it is already running.

That way if a person went to close the garage after backing the car out and then hit the wrong garage button (start button) it wouldn't eat up the flywheel. ;)

Is this feature built in to the Mazda starter button kit?

ok now you got me really thinking. IF this were to be done, i would think to disconnect the factory wiring from the desired button, as to not grind your starter/flywheel and re-wire using small gage leads. you wouldnt have to go that far if done correctly, i.e. - pull your 12v+ from the map light as well as a decent ground. only one wire must be routed now (well depending on you install pref from what i gather) to the clutch switch, and there is plenty of room to stuff a wire inbetween the windshield and the headliner. i have my radar detector routed like so and its placed above the mirror on the D/S. you cant even tell the wire is there.
when you get to the bottom of the A-pillar follow the lines of the dash to fuse panel and your good to go. Input? what do you think?

this sounds like a feasible idea. the way mine is currently, i ground off the bracket it comes on, and 86'd all the wiring except whats directly connected to the momentary switch. thats power, ground, and load. power is needed for the backlight LEDs. the way i tapped into the clutch switch, i can press the button all day long and nothing happens, unless i hold the clutch in.

Hey paul....you know what I am fixing to ask, right?

:lol:

Yeah, yeah... i know i know.... gimme some time.. and some extremely technical knowledge(if you have any)

I have some...but it doesn't apply to key cylinders...

The only thing I have is SCDD rule 1 - There is no problem that cannot be solved by the proper application of explosives.

Hmmm, and i was JUST shoping today for some ingredients... i bought:

Etch-a-Sketch
Steel wool
Vinegar
Bleach
Play-Doh
Magnesium ribbon

take a guess at what im making?

I saw nothing and heard nothing, and read even less.

I have no idea what you are talking about...

Etch-a-Sketch - Play Doh - for kids b-day party
Steel Wool and Bleach - Spring Cleaning.
Vinegar - Jellyfish Stings
Magnesium Ribbon - Extreme Camping fire starter

Right???

HOW DID YOU GUESS????:Eyecrazy: :Eyecrazy: :Eyecrazy:

now i just gotta figure out what to destroy....... i do have a few dead/locked hard drives

Use it on the ignition cylinder.... DUH!!!!

HACK THE LOCK OR THE BUNNY GETS IT!!!!

http://www.rx8club.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=102806&stc=1&d=1182515282

methinks if i could control thermite that well i would take a career in metallurgy.

OH NOS!!!! not TEH BUNNY!!!

I've been following this thread.. any updates?

i installed my engine start button yesterday and everything came out great...but i started wondering......what if the button is pressed when the engine has already begun to run? thatll hurt...

im wondering if theres a way for the button to stop working once the engine is running. i can imagine that most of the people who sit in my car will wanna push the button since it looks fun to push.

so do u guys have any suggestions? not sure if thats even possible. the only way i can think of is putting a switch on the wire running to the clutch power, and switching it off everytime i turn the car on but that will just make this whole "engine start" button more complicated than it should be. thats no fun...

Uh...smack your occupants and say don't touch.

It would be the same thing as turn the key to start when the car is running, don't do it. If you are driving around with people that can't understand that they probably shouldn't be near any motor vehicle.

Did you happen to find a solution for the ignition lock? or do you still insert the key?

unfortunately with the key still

just wanted to answer some questions...

poweredbyplaav: the easiest way to wire the switch, happens to be the way that will give you the results you want. if you are just using the switch(button) itself and none of the factory wirin you'll have 3 wires. power, ground, load. if you tap into the clutch switch like i did, then you have to have the clutch disengagued(pressed IN) to start... i scare ppl all the time by driving down the hwy at speed and reach over to press my start button. nothing happens unless i press in the clutch. i think Stealth's DIY on this covers how to find the right wire


All: No real substantial updates. about the key, due to the steering lock it is necessary to insert the key and turn to the ON position to be able to drive away after start.
That said, i had a rocker switch wired that would turn power ON and OFF, i tested it and can indeed flip the switch, push the start button.... sit and idle.... and them shut down by flipping the switch back. BUT i cant drive anywhere with a locked wheel. the ignition cylinder has to be turned to unlock the wheel.
Even in my keyless shinka, i have to turn my 'knob' to the on position to unlock the wheel

specifically about the lock, to date the only way i have found to disable the locking mechanism is to break it. i am NOT willing to do this in fear of causing major damage by crow barring the steering wheel.
the only othe possibility is buying a whole new assembly(the one in the car is made in such a way that its not meant to ever be functional again once taken/ripped apart) and try to find a way before installing to remove the lock.
this was gonna cost a couple hundred bucks to buy last i checked, and so is NOT being 86'd, but IS being put on the farthest backburner.. hell i'm more likely to be FI before i address this again than not

boo! Get me a quote, I'll go in on part of the cost.

right on Kane! thanks for the offer, may take you up on it one day, but currently i have other high dollar things on the waiting list, large list. PM me, we'll talk about it...

just wanted to answer some questions...

poweredbyplaav: the easiest way to wire the switch, happens to be the way that will give you the results you want. if you are just using the switch(button) itself and none of the factory wirin you'll have 3 wires. power, ground, load. if you tap into the clutch switch like i did, then you have to have the clutch disengagued(pressed IN) to start... i scare ppl all the time by driving down the hwy at speed and reach over to press my start button. nothing happens unless i press in the clutch. i think Stealth's DIY on this covers how to find the right wire


I wired it to the green/red wire, which is the one that does not require you to push the clutch. Stealth's DIY gives u the option to tap into the wire i used (the green/red) and also the other one (blue/white), which requires the push of the clutch. is that the one you connected it to?? because if it is, that will give me the solution i want...which is having the button not work during driving (unless the clutch is pushed) right?

I wired it to the green/red wire, which is the one that does not require you to push the clutch. Stealth's DIY gives u the option to tap into the wire i used (the green/red) and also the other one (blue/white), which requires the push of the clutch. is that the one you connected it to?? because if it is, that will give me the solution i want...which is having the button not work during driving (unless the clutch is pushed) right?


Yes, if you tap the blue/white wire you must push in the clutch, or the switch does nothing

This is a how-to for an aftermarket "Engine Start" button, it is not for the Right Hand Drive 'Mazda' version, just any old add-on button.

I used an S2000 Honda button, from ebay, about $35. ( Yeah, I know, Honduh! Ricearoni! Not kewl dude! Save it.....)

There are five pins, back view, left to right -

1-not used
2-not used
3-ground
4-power from lighter
5-power to clutch switch/start relay

Since I put the button in the hole for the lighter socket, I used the lighter's power and ground, and ran the signal wire back under the dash.....

S

Thanks StealthTL, for the great info on this fitting this button, made my one a little different

see the New Zealand rx8 club for pics--cheers
http://rx8club.quickkiwi.net/

i got the "engine start button" to successfully work, but i kind of have a problem now:

I have my radar detector hardwired to the fuse box, and everytime i start the car with the "button" rather than normal cranking with the key, my radar detector displays "LOW VOLTAGE" for a couple seconds, along with a beeping, and then they go away. Once the car is on, the radar detector operates normally. only when the "button" is being pushed, it displays it.

anybody else have this problem? any way to avoid it? is it bad/dangerous to have low voltage running to the radar detector for that short period of time????

any feedback is appreciated!

its not gonna hurt anything, as long as its not a cheap sh!t detector. mine gives me a lot of crap when i start up as well nothing has happened to it yet and its hardwired the same way.

just did the install on my 06, thanks for the write up,

didnt do clutch bypass or keyless ignition, just an alternate start button, so far pretty awesome =)

rx8 man... how did you make the rotary accent around the start button? I think it looks sick.

rx8 man... how did you make the rotary accent around the start button? I think it looks sick.

Made it on a old lathe, easy to do, just time consuming. Go to the below link to see more-- it'll be in the do it your self forum, Interior Mods :)

http://rx8club.quickkiwi.net/

rx8 man... how did you make the rotary accent around the start button? I think it looks sick.

Made it up on a old lathe, not hard, just takes time see the below link for moe info:)
http://rx8club.quickkiwi.net/index.php?topic=88.0

Really nice DIY everyone who posted pics, and thanks for all of your explanations on how to do it. I just ordered my s2000 button yesterday and cant wait to install it. I think I'm going to mount it in the cig lighter slot, i like the hidden look it gives.

damn is everyone mounting it there? Im getting the RB gauge pod that takes out the whole ashtray and lighter hole, so is there anywhere else that might be a good place to mount the thing? I would go out and look at the car myself but I wont see my car for anotheeerrrrrrrrr.... 20 weeks or so... F@ck Iraq

of you could put it here



http://i103.photobucket.com/albums/m144/paulmasoner/P4020385.jpg

that looks cool as hell... whats there normally? i would go out and look myself... but... well yeah... i refer to my previous post:banghead: :wallbash: :dammit:

btw... could i get a diy on how to put it there?

Stealth made 2 DIY's on push buttons...the first was in the ashtray and the second was how to mount it in the empty space below the cd (as you like)...don't know the threads name off hand but you should be able to find it.

Also I believe that style button is approx $200 (i think its from the button you can get in japan that replaces your coin tray), but stealth does it with the $30 Honda button that most of use.

Sweet! I just did this mod and it works fantastically. I mounted the button front and center under the volume knob just like StealthTL did. Currently I'm spliced into the blue/white clutch wire, but I'm thinking that I do want to make the button the only way to start the car; however, I'm reluctant to cut any wires without making sure 100%. Logic dictates that when I make the cut, the start button needs to be connected to the end that goes to the clutch switch, not the end that leads up to the ignition, however, just in case, can anyone confirm this for me?

Just came across this thread, and wanted to share my work.
I have bought Mazda genuine optional parts from Japan, and installed it.
Its supposed to go under the trunk release switch of dash-board, but since brackets are made for right steering wheel, I decided to DIY it to fit inside the cigarette socket (which I don't use at all)
Notice I have also bought "non-smoker's box" inside the cigarette holder(?).

I have also installed automatic door lock/unlock, and rear foglights and such.

http://www.rx8club.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=38569&d=1105408478

Thanks for looking. :)

would it be possible to use this start button in the gear shift handle replacing the gear pattern center piece?

As good as it would look; if you hit it while you were shifting that would not be good on the starter or the flywheel. ;)

The reliability of the wires going to the start button in the shifter would also be an issue. :(

I'm very tempted to try this mod. It'd be a lot of fun to have and looks cool. Thanks for the DIY Stealth.

Really no need to cut wires, folks -

If you put your 'start' signal to the blue/ white wire, you need to push the clutch in.

If the signal goes to the other wire, with the red stripe, the clutch switch is bypassed.

Put the signal to the stripe wire - and just UNDO the connector from the plunger switch, and the button becomes the ONLY way to start, but if you need to re-connect, for warranty or valet, etc. just plug the switch back in.

S

As good as it would look; if you hit it while you were shifting that would not be good on the starter or the flywheel. ;)

The reliability of the wires going to the start button in the shifter would also be an issue. :(

what if you had some sort of clear plastic cover so you wouldn't press the button.
also wiring it would be simple.

what if you had some sort of clear plastic cover so you wouldn't press the button.
also wiring it would be simple.

Plastic cover is a good idea.

The point I was making about reliability was not aimed at how easy it would be to wire but the

fact that the shifter gets moved around a lot. Some people have had issues with the JDM illuminated shifter wires because of all the movement

that they are subjected to.

The reliability of the wires for the start button is more critical than a light for the shift pattern.

If you do it make sure the wires have room to move and have a high strand count so they are flexible. ;)

Only trying to help. :)

does anybody know what other kinds of start buttons are quality besides the Honda one?

And yes, I know this is a lot more work than the previous locations in the ashtray/cig lighter... but what about in the sunglass holder? That would increase the cool factor, and if you added the toggles for ON and ACC that were mentioned earlier along side the button, it would be like a jet pilot starting up for take-off..

just an idea :)

Or get even more crazy - Transporter keypad ignition start

(<--- ducks behind flame-resistant panel... )

^all you lucky keyless card people, you don't have to deal with the RFID chip

Since I still get at least two emails a week, the instructions are obviously confusing people -

I have up-dated the instructions in the second post of this thread.

See post #2.

Hope the options are clearer now.......
S

can you buy the rx8 logo of the lighter start button...to....can you show step by step to install the start button in really interested to that...plz....thank you very uch......

can you buy the rx8 logo of the lighter start button...to....can you show step by step to install the start button in really interested to that...plz....thank you very uch......

see the first few posts in this thread. Stealth has outlined the steps and also provided pics of the install.

I did this recently in my car, but the start engine button does not light up. It is an original part from honda for the S2000. Do i need to wire any of the other pins in order to get it to light up the button?

I'd much rather this be an "emergency party" button.

First let me say thanks for an excellent set of DIY instructions, I've had a number of RX7's in the past and finally swapped to the RX8 last year.

So far the mods have all been external , with the exception of a Racing Beat air-box. But saw this post and fancied doing it, before I replace the ash tray for a racing beat gauge pod and dials.

However, the UK wiring is different to your setup in the US, we don't need to put the clutch in to start the Car (are all the US cars Auto boxes, or do you need to do that even on the Manual versions ?) and don't have cruise control. There are only two wires coming from the clutch switch (and neither meet your colour coding). :banghead:

So .... anyone on this forum from the UK that has done this type of mod and can help me ?

Cheers !

I don't remember if it is a negative output or a positive.

What you do is test to see which clutch wire changes when you depress the clutch.

One should be a input and the other is the output which changes when you depress the clutch. ;)

(It is better to use a multimeter than a test light).

First let me say thanks for an excellent set of DIY instructions, I've had a number of RX7's in the past and finally swapped to the RX8 last year.

So far the mods have all been external , with the exception of a Racing Beat air-box. But saw this post and fancied doing it, before I replace the ash tray for a racing beat gauge pod and dials.

However, the UK wiring is different to your setup in the US, we don't need to put the clutch in to start the Car (are all the US cars Auto boxes, or do you need to do that even on the Manual versions ?) and don't have cruise control. There are only two wires coming from the clutch switch (and neither meet your colour coding). :banghead:

So .... anyone on this forum from the UK that has done this type of mod and can help me ?

Cheers !

Go to page 3 there are Examples for how to do it in a European RX8

Thanks all for your help - Page 3 has the information needed if you've got a European car (manual drive) as the blue/white wire from the ignition connector is the one to connect to +12V via your switch (the screenshots really helped). :worship:

Many thanks again for not just telling me to read the posts etc like some forums - I could have sworn I followed the thread all the way through - but must have missed the important bit.

I now have an RX8 that can be started via stealth switch , which I think is cool, even if I do still need the ignition key in to remove the steering lock !

Now for the next set of modifications ..... :mdrmed:

even if I do still need the ignition key in to remove the steering lock !



the steering lock can be bypassed.

i had a simple DC switch tapped into the ignition to test that i could power the car ON and OFF, no issues.

the steering lock can be removed, some of the guys in Grand Am(i think, or some other racing class) have to do it per requirement. i couldnt figure out how to do it on my own car as i have the keyless start and my ignition is a bit different. but for standard key ignition cylinders it can be done for sure....

Does anyone know where to order the Honda start button cheap besides Ebay?

I recommend finding another location for you start button, I do like where you placed it but pending on the area you live in you might want to find a location that is not so easy to find. I plan on getting remote start on mine.

i know its not an rx-8 but my old focus had where the key went, a flat toggle switch i just pushed over and notice the start button on the dash below the change console. i thought it was a good idea of course it had a pager alarm system installed to unlock the doors. just went toggle switch, clutch, push engine start button. i liked it

http://memimage.cardomain.com/member_images/7/web/2647000-2647999/2647197_25_full.jpg

So where is the cheapest place I can buy the Honda push button start button besides Ebay? Thanks.

without a keyless entry remote system in place, it just makes your car easier to steal. i know it looks cool, but this seems like a really risky mod. all a car jacker needs is physical access to your car. <shrugs>

so what's the advantage of doing this mod besides the kewl factor?
rx8cited

the switch was integrated into the alarm system if the windows were up and you broke in or you got into the car anyway that required not unlocking it from inside or the remote and you hit the switch and pressed the start engine button it would not start because it's integrated the alarm. i had one problem with this one time i was like 50miles from home i guess lightning storm shorted it out. the remote wouldnt work, so i had to open with a key the alarm went off car wouldnt start had to pen the hood take the terminal off sit there for 15min and put it back on the alarm went off but it reset itself and i could start the car. =\ bad thing was i was on a date talk about bad luck

ouchie

this is something im looking at doing but im in the same boat as paulmasoner with the keyless system as mine is an 07. in college at the moment for my apprenticeship and the computers at school have all data. if the steering lock is electronic is there a wire we could pull constant power from to keep it unlocked maybe?

I have a 2004 RX8, so I can forget this about keyless ignition right? When the steering lock is in the way?

vERY kOOL gIG. wILL iT WORK ON MY at rx-8?
wHERE DO i GET THIS bUTTON?
tKS

the steering lock can be bypassed.

i had a simple DC switch tapped into the ignition to test that i could power the car ON and OFF, no issues.

the steering lock can be removed, some of the guys in Grand Am(i think, or some other racing class) have to do it per requirement. i couldnt figure out how to do it on my own car as i have the keyless start and my ignition is a bit different. but for standard key ignition cylinders it can be done for sure....

Paulmasoner what if instead of removing the steering lock you leave the ignition key to the ON position always.
I have seen that you used 2 extra switches to simulate the ACC and ON possitions so if these 2 switches are OFF and ignition key to ON the car would still be in the OFF position.
I know in that way that you loose the steering lock but you still have the immobilizer.

I am thinking of doing that option, what do you think?

Can you use the button as an alternative way to start the car so if you just wanted to use the key, turning the key to the on position would work?

For everyone using the S2K push start button, a floppy drive power cable connector actually fits perfectly into the back of the button. It'll save you time of trying to hardwire it into the back. Just a little FYI to make things easier. You can just pull one out from an old computer.

Great find!

Plug'n'play!

S

nice catch with the floppy cable plug-n-play!

Paulmasoner what if instead of removing the steering lock you leave the ignition key to the ON position always.
I have seen that you used 2 extra switches to simulate the ACC and ON possitions so if these 2 switches are OFF and ignition key to ON the car would still be in the OFF position.
I know in that way that you loose the steering lock but you still have the immobilizer.

I am thinking of doing that option, what do you think?

as dead as this topic is for me, i'll bite. leaving the ignition in the ON position would not help in anyway. The lock is electronic and on a timer. If i turn the ignition to ON i hear the lock disengage, but if i dont turn the actual ignition to START within about 6-8 seconds, the lock re-engages.

Can you use the button as an alternative way to start the car so if you just wanted to use the key, turning the key to the on position would work?

Anyone? :uhh:

^Why would you install the button in the first place then?

So if I felt lazy and didn't want to have to go and reach for the button I could just turn the key. I would like to be able to use the button only when I want to show it off to people or when I want that cool feel.

The way the "start buttons" that we all did work is like this:
1) put key in ignition(for those of us with keycards, we just sit down with keycard in pocket)
2) turn ignition to ON position
3) press start button
4) to turn car off - turn ignition to OFF position
5) remove key, go inside and touch yourself thinking about how awesome your "start button" is :)

What I was trying to accomplish: (i have keycard and keyless ignition)
-disable the electronic steering lock(never figured this out, should have sought more help from the Koni guy's since i KNOW they've done it)
-wire up a toggle for OFF/ON position(did this, it worked, the rotary switch in the ignition is pretty simple)
-install start button
-be able to get in car, flig a toggle, press start button and drive away

what i managed to do:
-get in car, flip toggle, press start button, and idle
-i could not drive the car like this since the steering lock is still engaged. it disengages when i turn the ignition to the ON position, but re-engages after 6-8 seconds if i do not turn the ignition to the START position and start the motor

what i eventually wanted to do:
-assuming i had ever gotten everything figured out, i wanted to replace the OFF/ON toggle and the start button with a single button. i wanted a push button switch that had a locking detent so i could start and stop the car with one simple push button. at one point i had found such a switch but it was grotesque. ***see attachted MS Paint masterpiece that attempts to describe what i mean.



i got asked alot about security and disabling the steering lock. i was/am not worried about it. If a thief can get into my car, stop the alarm, and get it started.... the steering lock isnt going to stop him. hell the steering lock can be broken in 2 seconds with a prybar.
-

The way the "start buttons" that we all did work is like this:
What I was trying to accomplish: (i have keycard and keyless ignition)
-disable the electronic steering lock(never figured this out, should have sought more help from the Koni guy's since i KNOW they've done it)
-wire up a toggle for OFF/ON position(did this, it worked, the rotary switch in the ignition is pretty simple)
-install start button
-be able to get in car, flig a toggle, press start button and drive away

what i managed to do:
-get in car, flip toggle, press start button, and idle
-i could not drive the car like this since the steering lock is still engaged. it disengages when i turn the ignition to the ON position, but re-engages after 6-8 seconds if i do not turn the ignition to the START position and start the motor
-

Hi paulmasoner, this is very similar to what I was trying to do, so I wanted to ask you a few questions:
Did you disable completely the ignition key or can be used in combination?
If you didn't disable it completely, If you would always leave the ignition key to ON, I think this would resolve your problem of steering lock.
What do you think?

So with the button installed, the only way to start the car is by turing it to accessory and then pushing the button? Is there a way to wire it so I could do it that way, or just turn the key completely and forget about the button for times when I am in a rush? Thanks.

here is the order when you put the key in the ignition...... ACC then ON then START...when you turn on your car you turn it to START, then notice it springs back to sit in the ON position. one more click back the motor turns off but your radio stays on, one more click back and you take out the key....... with push button how it is configured here----when you put your key in, like EVERY other car with a start button (s2000/ford GT/ bugatti VEYRONN)))) you have to put the key in(or be in car), turn it to on(skip with comfort key), THEN push the button.........

Hi paulmasoner, this is very similar to what I was trying to do, so I wanted to ask you a few questions:
Did you disable completely the ignition key or can be used in combination?
If you didn't disable it completely, If you would always leave the ignition key to ON, I think this would resolve your problem of steering lock.
What do you think?

No i never disabled the ignition(as in where you'd put your key in). If i always left the key in the ON position the battery would die unless i have the ignition completely rewired to a switch in which case turning it wouldn't do anything since the lock is electronic:uhh: And it wouldnt solve steering lock for my car. I have an 06 Shinka with keyless ignition - i have a knob to run instead of putting a key in. When i turn that knob to the ON position, i have only a few seconds to turn it to START or the steering lock re-enables.

So with the button installed, the only way to start the car is by turing it to accessory and then pushing the button? Is there a way to wire it so I could do it that way, or just turn the key completely and forget about the button for times when I am in a rush? Thanks.

The normal(and only feasible for most people) way to install a start button will result in these possibilities:
1) Put key in, turn to ON, press start button, drive, park, turn key to OFF
2) You can still use the key like normal if you didnt want to press the button.
All the start button does is give you an alternate way to crank the starter motor, everything else stays the same

here is the order when you put the key in the ignition...... ACC then ON then START...when you turn on your car you turn it to START, then notice it springs back to sit in the ON position. one more click back the motor turns off but your radio stays on, one more click back and you take out the key....... with push button how it is configured here----when you put your key in, like EVERY other car with a start button (s2000/ford GT/ bugatti VEYRONN)))) you have to put the key in(or be in car), turn it to on(skip with comfort key), THEN push the button.........

most of the vehicles that offer keyless ignition these days have fully push button start and stop. ie - get in, push button and drive, park, push buttong and get out.

you have to put the key in(or be in car), turn it to on(skip with comfort key), THEN push the button.........

Thats why i mention in () to get in car and skipping the turning on step if you have a comfort key...well keyless ignition, I got a 328i and bmw calls it a comfort key

No i never disabled the ignition(as in where you'd put your key in). If i always left the key in the ON position the battery would die unless i have the ignition completely rewired to a switch in which case turning it wouldn't do anything since the lock is electronic:uhh: And it wouldnt solve steering lock for my car. I have an 06 Shinka with keyless ignition - i have a knob to run instead of putting a key in. When i turn that knob to the ON position, i have only a few seconds to turn it to START or the steering lock re-enables.



The normal(and only feasible for most people) way to install a start button will result in these possibilities:
1) Put key in, turn to ON, press start button, drive, park, turn key to OFF
2) You can still use the key like normal if you didnt want to press the button.
All the start button does is give you an alternate way to crank the starter motor, everything else stays the same



most of the vehicles that offer keyless ignition these days have fully push button start and stop. ie - get in, push button and drive, park, push buttong and get out.

Thanks for the clarification. That is exactly what I wanted to know.

this is pretty nifty

and simple and fun to do

for sure, im gonna look into this tomorrow! i've always wanted push button start. thanks for the demonstration!

That is awesome!

My 8 already install a mazda engine start button, but it doesnt work, I dont know how to take this out (the coin box). Any brothers can help?

My 8 already install a mazda engine start button, but it doesnt work, I dont know how to take this out (the coin box). Any brothers can help?

I believe you have to remove the trim around the red button then remove the screws in order to take of the cover off.... I need to find the start button installation instruction, or if you can find the one for miata should be about the same installation.

Hi paulmasoner,

Where is the electronic steering lock located? Do you have a picture of it? I looked for it in the work manual and couldn't find it, likely I'm looking at the wrong pages.

I duno if anyone reads/writes this thread anymore, but does this setup work so that you have to hold the button down to start? like how you have to hold the key 'turned'?

Would anyone happen to have a picture of the exact wire splice for set up B? I tried it but the button nor key worked. Thanks.