Small sensor / button looking thing to the right of the steering column

[flatbone]

Hi. So, I've had my car for almost 2 years and I've only seen this now.

There's this small sensor to the right of the steering column (LHD), where other cars might have a Start Engine button.. see the pictures.

To me it looks like the light sensor but it seems like an odd placement.. anybody has a better idea? I did not find anything in the manual BTW

 

[Damo H]

Pure guess here, but if you have key less entry etc, could be a sensor to help start the car if the battery in the fob is running low. I know on the BMW I don;t so much have a visible sensor like that but an icon on the side of the steering column to place the key if the battery is too low.

 

[dazed]

Good spot. Just checked my RHD and have the same but on the left side of the wheel.

Excuse the dust, the flash highlighted that it needs a clean!
I think the key sensor is in the key tray by gear selector

 

[Wyld Stallyn]

Good spot. Just checked my RHD and have the same but on the left side of the wheel.
View attachment 36474
Excuse the dust, the flash highlighted that it needs a clean!
I think the key sensor is in the key tray by gear selector

Yes, key sensor is in the tray

 

[Wyld Stallyn]

Just as a precaution - it might be wise to open the sunroof Before trying the button...

 

[st4niu]

Yes, key sensor is in the tray

Isn't it in the cupholder?

 

[dazed]

Isn't it in the cupholder?

That's the emergency start location. Just scanning manual for this mysterious sensor / button thing

 

[Hampa1]

If I’m not completely wrong it’s a sensor for the climate control.