Applicable to: '90 - '97 '99 + 1.6 liter 1.8 liter
This is a Big Red Starter Button to be installed in the lighter socket. It is a unit manufactured by Ignited Inc. with an added relay and relay socket and some short (generic) instructions.
It was easy to install. Removing lighter socket and installing button in its place took 2 minutes without any tools. Knowledge of automobile electricity is essential and basic tools are required (wire cutters, soldering iron, etc.) I decided to install it using information I had found on the internet to better duplicate the "normal" operation of the start function using the key. The suggested method leaves the key operational to start the car and does not cut the "ACC" or "IGN2" functions. I replaced the supplied relay (which seemed to be of "fair" quality) with a higher quality relay from Napa (AR272) which is rated for 40Amps and can withstand the power needs of the IGN2 circuit.
The starter button itself is of very good quality, the built-in light is not too bright, just fine for night driving. The suggested wiring circuit and relay does not duplicate normal operation and seems to be setup so that a failure will not let you stranded. Gives a nice look to the driver's area (especially for an M1) and makes the car function in a more unique way. I have not used it much yet but I have confidence that it will function properly for a long time (even more so with the upgraded relay!)
Over 30 minutes to remove completely
Applicable to: '90 - '97
Big Red Starter Button
This unit is truly plug and play, no modifications, wire splicing or cutting are required. Even the length of the wires is correct to complete a neat and tidy installation. I initially thought the light may have been too bright for nightime use but decided to live with it for a while. The unit can be grounded to the E-brake to operate only when the E-brake is engaged if the light bothers you. I am growing to like the level of brightness. The unit operates exactly as advertised and there are no surprises.
The instructions are clear, and Len, at Metro is available and eager to help if needed. The only part of the installation that may slow you down is removing the lighter. It is awkward to reach but with patience and a bit of squirmin around it comes right out. The best part of this unit is that it is a LOT of fun. We did not buy Miatas because they are practical, we bought 'em to have fun.
Under 30 minutes to remove completely
Applicable to: '99 +
Plug and Play Illuminated Big Red Starter Button that fits in the cigarette lighter hole.
Installation could not have been simpler! It truly is "plug 'n play". Very good instructions included with product. Only instruction missing was concerning connection of the black (ground) wire. When grounding the black wire to a metal structural member under the dash (as intended by manufacturer), the button will stay lit continuously. This was not desirable for me, so I connected the black wire to the wire coming from the e-brake handle. The starter button now lights only when e-brake is engaged.
Because the starter button harness includes factory "snap together" connectors; This mod is totally reversible as no wire cutting or splicing is involved. The cigarette lighter hole also does not need to be enlarged to accommodate the button. Button works great! Highly recommended.
Under 30 minutes to remove completely
Applicable to: '90 - '97
Large lighted plug and play cigarette lighter BRB sold by MetroMotorsports.
The problem previously mentioned by others concerning the emergency brake warning light staying on has been fully corrected. This is an excellent simple to install BRB unit which requires no cutting or splicing of your orriginal ignition wiring (which I consider to be a big advantage) and is 100% reversible in 5 minutes. I am extremely pleased with it.
I have had one of the new modified units for a while now and it works perfectly and I really like the fact that it is large and lights up. Leni at Metro gave me super customer service and willingly replaced the old defective model right away and with no hassle. I have bought many other items from Leni and have always found his customer service to be exceptional and that he stands behind his stuff 100%.
Under 5 minutes to remove
Applicable to: '99 +
This starter button is installed in the location of the cigarette lighter
I purchased this product from Metro Motorsports and I was not satisfied. I have since returned it to the vendor.
Although the Metro BRB came as a plug and play installation, it caused various problems. A dashboard clutch warning light would come on whenever I released the clutch. I had to cover this up with electrical tape. I also experienced several blown headlamp fuses while the BRB was installed, as well as several check engine lights. Unlike the previous reviewer, I was not immediately shipped a new product when I reported these problems to Metro. I was offered the choice of rewiring the device myself to fix a missing ground wire, or I could return it, which I did at my expense. I have not yet received a credit for my return shipping costs. I think the customer service I received could have been better.
Under 30 minutes to remove completely
Applicable to: '99 + 1.8 liter
Plug and play starter button, that is installed in the cigarette lighter hole (aka Honda S2000).
Quick, simple plug and play installation. Remove the center console, remove the bezel that holds the cigarette lighter and airbag switch. Remove the housing that covers the turn signals and window washers and ignition switch. Unplug the ignition switch harness, plug the Big Red Starter button harness into the ignition switch, plug the Miata ignition switch harness plug into the Big Red harness. Remove the cigarette lighter and install the starter button in vacant hole. Put everthing back together and you are done.
I am really impress with the owner of Metro Motorsports, Leni. I had a problem with my switch, missing a ground wire that caused the emergency brake warning light to stay on until the clutch was depressed. E-mailed Leni and got a replacement right away. If you have a question about a product you will a get a prompt response. He is a very personable guy that you can call and talk about the products that he has to offer. He is very knowledgeable and helpful.
Under 30 minutes to remove completely
| Back to Product Reviews | 24 December, 2003 |