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Jeep Wrangler JK: How to Install a Push Button Starter

If turning the key is too boring to start your Jeep's engine, then this article is for you. The instructions will show you how to install a push button starter to your Jeep Wrangler.

By Jared Hammond - November 11, 2015

This article applies to the Jeep Wrangler JK (2007-Present).

Many new vehicle models have push button start as a standard feature. The Jeep Wrangler JK sadly missed out on this feature on any of its trims. It's not a feature that's easily implemented, nor will it be practical for everyone. Even if you were to install a push button starter, you'll still be required to have the key in the ignition. But there are some instances where it is useful to install a secondary push button starter. Perhaps there's too much delay in your ignition switch, or the ignition switch is inconsistent at starting the Jeep. If you're still interested in installing a push button starter, keep reading to learn more.

Materials Needed

  • Push button switch
  • Multimeter
  • Ratchet with socket set
  • 14 gauge wire
  • Female wire terminals
  • Drill
  • Wire strippers
  • Wire crimper
  • Soldering iron and solder
  • Electrical tape

Step 1 – Remove steering wheel column panels

Pry off the lower dash panel. To remove the steering wheel column panels, remove the bolt at the bottom panel. Don't remove the bolts on the steering wheel itself. With the bolt removed, you should be able to pull off both halves of the steering wheel column panels.

Figure 1. Remove the lower dash.

Step 2 – Install the push button switch

Find an accessible open place to install your switch. Once you've found a place, drill out a hole large enough to fit the switch. Once the hole is roughly cut out, smooth it out and clean it of any debris. Cut out two lengths of wire that will be long enough to reach the ignition switch wires. Don't forget to label them. Crimp one end of each wire to a terminal that can then be connected to the switch, and then finally install the switch to the hole.

Figure 2. Switches installed to the dash.

Step 3 – Connect wires

You'll need to identify the 12 volt power wire that connects to the ignition switch. You can find it by checking the wires at the ignition switch with a multimeter set to measure volts. Once you've found it, disconnect the battery. Strip off the ends of your switch wires and strip out a small part of the power wire. Wrap your switch wire around the power wire, solder them together, and cover them in electrical tape. Reconnect the battery, and then find the wire that connects to the starter motor relay. You'll be able to identify it because it receives 12 volts whenever the key is turned in the ignition. Once you've found the wire, connect your switch wire to it the same way you tapped into the power wire.

Figure 3. Wiring for the ignition switch.

To test the switch, put the key in the ignition and push the button. Your starter should start up now without delay. When you're finished, bundle up the wires under the dash, then return the steering wheel column panels and the lower dash panel. Then return the bolts to the panels.

Featured Video: How to Install Start Button

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