Black Button - What does it do?

TBUNCH · 03-30-2015, 06:39 AM

Had my 05' SMB for about four months now. I think I have everything just about figured out except for the mysterious black button. This is found just under the steering column. I think it might be a battery over ride switch in case I need to use the house battery to crank the engine but figured I would ask before I dove too deep. Hoping it is a standard button but with an SMB who knows?

Any ideas?

REF · 03-30-2015, 07:19 AM

Could be anything, kill switch, battery switch.....have you pushed it? Did the PO have an aftermarket stereo installed? I have a backup camera override button that is similar, I can use the camera while in drive. Any way to contact the PO?

**BroncoHauler** · 03-30-2015, 07:35 AM

I would guess it's a Valet switch for the alarm.

Herb

86Scotty · 03-30-2015, 08:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BroncoHauler

I would guess it's a Valet switch for the alarm.

Herb

I'm with Herb. It looks exactly like mine. Does your van have an aftermarket alarm?

BrianW · 03-30-2015, 08:09 AM

Ejector seat button?

TBUNCH · 03-30-2015, 09:19 AM

Yes I do have an aftermarket alarm. Never use it as I live in the country. I guess I can try it tonight.

If I hit the button does that mean that if someone breaks in that the alarm will not go off?

The only way I know to test this is the hit the button with the window rolled down. THen reach in and open the door form the inside.

If it does eject me instead then I might not be here to post the result tomorrow.

yvrr · 03-30-2015, 09:34 AM

I have one of those buttons too. If you don't have a transmitter but do have a key and need to start the vehicle, insert the key, turn the ignition on and push the button and then start the van.

I've used it a couple of times when the alarm has been accidentally activated and the van won't start. Push the button and you can then start the van and everything returns to normal. (As I recall.)

To test it (as I recall), when you are in the van, lock the vehicle from inside with the transmitter and then try to start it without unlocking it. It shouldn't start. Push and hold (as I recall) the button and you should be able to start it.

shenrie · 03-30-2015, 10:19 AM

^^^ good info on the starting process! didnt know that, thanks for posting

but ya, appears to be an alarm momentary button. like stated, its often used for valet mode and programming different features for the alarm. for instance, if you dont want the horn to honk and only want your lights to flash when arming/disarming alarm theres certain sequences you punch in with that button to personalize how it works. thats not how you arm or disarm it though.

carringb · 03-31-2015, 02:09 PM

On most alarms, the programing button can also serve as an over-ride. Usually you hold it for 10 seconds to disable the alarm (in case the key fob is broken or lost). That button us supposed to be installed in a discreet location, but car stereo installers are so uniform placing it in that exact spot, I never really have to look for it.