Audi A3: How to Install Engine Start/Stop Button

Do you want the convenience and "cool" factor that comes with a push button ignition? This article will show you how to install a start/stop button in your A3.

By Brett Foote - March 23, 2016

This article applies to the Audi A3 (2003-2012).

Lots of new cars come with start/stop buttons for the ignition, and for good reason. Start/stop buttons add a little convenience by allowing you to keep your keys in your pocket, and they add an undeniable "cool" factor to your car. If you are unlucky enough to have a standard ignition in your Audi, installing a start/stop button is possible, and it isn't too expensive either. For around $150 and a few spare weekend hours, you can install one and never have to take your keys out of your pocket again.

Materials Needed

2GO PKE kit
Solder gun
Heat shrink tubing
Heat gun
Drill and conical drill bit

Step 1 – Solder connections for PKE kit

Before installing the 2GO PKE kit, the necessary connections should be soldered together. This will ensure a permanent and secure connection versus simply crimping the connections. Once soldered, use heat shrink tubing and a heat gun to cover all exposed wire to protect it. Repeat this process for the power and ground wires, then attach the light grey wires to the hazard output wires. Finally, solder the remote trunk release.

Figure 1. Solder the connections outlined in the instruction manual for the PKE kit.
Figure 2. Use heat shrink tubing to protect any exposed wires.

Step 2 – Install wiring harness

Remove the steering wheel column cover and the ignition switch. Connect the DB-All harness to the car's BCM. Connect the other four electrical connectors if you are also installing the 2GO kit, which features keyless entry. If installing keyless entry, install the antennas that came with the kit as well.

AUDI A3 2.0T TFSI FSI PUSH BUTTON KEYLESS START IGNITION REPLACE INSTALL HOW TO — Figure 3. Connect the five wiring harnesses.

Step 3 – Install push button ignition

Use a drill and conical drill bit to drill a hole big enough for the new push button ignition switch. Take your time and test fit to ensure the hole isn't too big and you don't damage your expensive dash. Feed the wiring for the ignition switch into the dash and push the button in place. Connect the electrical connectors and wiring for the ignition switch. Solder the factory wires indicated in the instruction manual (based on which kit you purchase) and cover them with heat shrink tubes. Test the new ignition button to ensure it is working properly, then reinstall the column surround.