Red button on dash panel.

[Dorian1609]

Hey, I just bought a beaten up 1973 Corolla, this morning I noticed a red button to the left of the steering wheel (picture attached) when I pressed it, I heard a sound like a pump or a small electric motor in the Engine bay, but nothing happened at the moment, a couple of hours later, the engine wouldn't start. I made some adjustment to the steering and worker in the interiors, haven't done anything to the engine yet, but pressing the button. Does anyone knows what's that button for?

[lilpopjim]

I don't have any experience with this car.. but It could be an immobiliser switch/ button. It could be a manual switch for the fuel pump perhaps; that would explain the motor sound you said you heard. If the engine isn't starting  with just the key; i'd try starting while pressing this button.