weird button, whats its purpose

[paulo66]

hi all ive just purchased a 2002 mk4 golf gti 2ltr and its been sitting for 12 years, got it to crank but no start, i have weird button besides key on dash was wondering if anyone knew what this is?

[SRGTD]

Looks like an on / off push button switch similar to the one at the link below for some type of aftermarket electrical powered accessory installed by a previous owner. Assuming that’s what it is, what the device is (or was) that it’s attached to is anyone’s guess. Are you able to trace where the other end of cable goes to that’s attached to the switch?

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Button-Switch-EBTOOLS-Indicator-Replacement/dp/B07PK7X7T6

Are there any obvious aftermarket electrical accessories on the car or signs that there might have been (e.g. DIY fixing holes in the bumpers / bodywork where something was previously attached to the car)?

[paulo66]

hi thanks i cant seem to trace it to anything yet but will get a better go at it later, yeah seems like its a common button for aftermarket led light assemblies, was worried it was some sort of random immobiliser

[SRGTD]

I don’t think it would be an immobiliser; the simple push button on/off switch - and where it’s been located - would make it far too easy for a would-be car thief to deactivate it.

[Beebopper]

Could also be something related to a hands-free kit, pick up and drop call button. is there a mic hidden somewhere in the head-lining / up high?

[Exonian]

Looking at it again, is there an extra cable coming out of the throttle pedal plug?
It kind of reminds me of an early version of a PedalBox type device for sharpening throttle response.