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The vehicle is a Toyota Landcruiser 300 series, built in 2022.
The solution that we are designing is ultimately a simple 'kill switch' to prevent the vehicle from being stolen.
The 'kill switch' disconnects the vehicle starter motor in the engine bay by using a dashboard-mounted switch which the driver can switch off when the vehicle is not in use. When the driver returns to the vehicle, he can turn the switch on to deliver power to the starter motor and use the vehicle normally.
To further deter thieves from stealing the vehicle, power will be re-directed to the vehicle's horn when the 'kill switch' is turned off. This way, if thieves break into the vehicle and attempt to start the engine with the kill switch turned off, the vehicle's horn will sound.
Additionally, the horn should sound for a prolonged period of say 5-10 seconds in order that the thieves feel compelled to leave the vehicle in a hurry as they’ll be attracting attention.
This diagram illustrates a conceptual wiring setup for a kill switch installed in the dashboard, disabling the starter motor and redirecting the start signal to pulse the horn (0.5s on/off, ~8 pulses) for exactly 8 seconds automatically when activated. Key notes:
Interrupt the starter trigger wire at the ignition switch harness or ECM harness in the interior (consult vehicle manual for exact color/location, often black/white).
Mount the SPDT kill switch in a dashboard panel (e.g., blank switch slot or custom mount).
Place the two 555 timers, NPN transistor, PNP transistor, and relay in a compact enclosure behind the dashboard (e.g., under center console or glovebox).
Route a fused +12V line from the battery through the firewall to the dashboard.
Tap into the horn control wire at the steering column or fuse box (typically grounded to activate).
Use a chassis ground point in the dashboard area (e.g., metal bolt, ensure clean contact).
The monostable timer (8s) powers the astable timer (pulsing) via a PNP transistor for automatic cutoff after 8 seconds.
Add fuses (e.g., 10A) for safety. This is for illustrative purposes; consult a professional electrician or mechanic for installation to avoid vehicle damage or warranty issues.
Fuses: Starter related - ST NO.1/ST NO.2 30A in engine compartment fuse box 2. Horn - HORN 15A, S-HORN 10A in fuse box 1.
