Newb question re: plastic 'key' that is plugged into a socket near driver's right knee. There's a security-type light next to it. Owners manual doesnt reference it. What ta hell is it? (2001 CLS)

 

Your gonna need to post a pic of that one

Never seen anything like that in my car

 

Did you buy the car new?
Sounds like an aftermarket alarm kill switch

 

Probably the valet switch for an aftermarket alarm

 

^^^ Yep. I used to install them in new cars when I worked for Subaru. If you don't have to have the security "key" to start the car, it's probably disabled and you might be able to just simply unscrew it and throw it away. If the 'key" is still in it and the light is glowing, pull it out and try to start the car. If it won't turn over, that's what it is and it's still enabled. They are REALLY easy to take out. I used to get paid $10 per car to install them and I could do about 75 of them in a short day. So if that tells you how simple they are...

 

I thought it was a kill switch, but it looks factory and the original owner didn't mention anything aftermarket. Plus, CL ignition keys are chip embedded, so an aftermarket kill switch would be a redundant waste, no? Can CL's be stolen without an ignition key?

 

CL's typically don't get stolen and yes it would be redundant.

 

Oh, and BTW - When I worked for Suby, we mainly installed those on our lot for two reasons. 1.) Dealership got discount for having them in every car. 2.) Some people actually bought the systems when they bought the car and made a heap of money on them.

 

I hade one of these in my '95 Accord. It was neat, but I almost never used it. I only used it when I was in some place I don't often visit. lol. I almost forgot I had it untill I saw this thread.

 

Damn. I bet you were a baller back then. $750 per day. Dayum.

 

LOL!, I did make pretty good money working for them. I only installed those systems every so often though. More like once every 3 months or so I'd do it over a Saturday and Sunday.

 

cool... glad we figured that one out...Could not of done it without you Chriskh...