Have you ever been stranded because the ignition switch in your automobile is damaged and won’t turn on? It can be very annoying, especially if you’re pressed for time or stuck somewhere strange. In this guide, I will describe how to bypass the ignition switch and fast restart your car. So fasten your seatbelt, and let’s begin!
What is an ignition Switch?
An ignition switch is a key component to getting your car started. It is on the steering column, just above the ignition key cylinder. When the engine is off, the starter motor and other accessories are powered by the ignition switch. Turning the key to the “on” position sends power to the starter solenoid, activating the starter motor. The starter motor cranks the engine, which starts the combustion process. The engine’s running means the ignition switch is sending power to the accessories. This includes the headlights, radio, and windshield wipers.
If your ignition switch is faulty and preventing your automobile from starting, a key switch can be used to bypass the switch and restart your vehicle. This can be done by jumping the starter solenoid with a screwdriver or jumper cable. This is only a short-term fix; as soon as possible, your ignition switch needs to be fixed or replaced.
Reasons for Bypassing the Ignition Switch
You might need to bypass your ignition switch for a few reasons. You may have lost your keys and can’t get a new set made, or your ignition switch is just worn out from years of use. Either way, bypassing your ignition switch is a simple process that anyone can do with patience and the right set of tools. Let’s look at how to bypass your ignition switch and get your car running again.
How to Bypass The Ignition Switch
Method 1: Hotwiring the Vehicle
Hotwiring your car is one way to bypass an ignition switch if your car needs to be bypassed. This involves accessing the wires that go to the ignition switch and connecting them so that they can bypass the switch.
You’ll need to locate the wires that go to the ignition switch to do this. These are usually located near the steering column. Once you’ve located them, cut the insulation surrounding the wires with a wire cutter. The wire ends should then be twisted together until they are tightly joined using a pair of pliers.
Once you’ve done this, your car should start without the ignition switch. This is only a temporary fix, so keep in mind that the ignition switch will eventually need to be replaced.
Method 2: Use a Screwdriver
You can disable the ignition switch in your car by using a screwdriver. Locate the screw holding the ignition switch in place first. It is usually located near the keyhole. After removing the screw with a screwdriver, take the ignition switch out of the housing.
Next, pry the ignition switch housing open with the screwdriver. A network of wires is present inside. Find the wire corresponding to the “start” position on the ignition switch, and twist it around another wire. It will bypass the ignition switch and allow you to start your car.
If your car doesn’t have an ignition switch, you can bypass it using a screwdriver. First, locate the wires that lead from the battery to the starter solenoid. There are usually two of them: one large and one smaller wire. Use a screwdriver to disconnect these wires from the starter solenoid.
Next, use a screwdriver to connect these wires directly to each other. Bypassing the ignition switch in this way will enable you to start your vehicle.
Method 3: Jump Starting Your Car
One method is to jump-start your car. By connecting jumper wires to a running vehicle’s battery, you can use them to start your own. Here’s how to do it:
- Place the functional vehicle close to the vehicle with the dead battery, but don’t let them touch.
- Locate the batteries by opening the hoods of both vehicles.
- Connect the positive terminal of the dead battery to the end of the red jumper cable. The other end of the red cable should then be linked to the positive terminal of the working battery.
- Next, connect one end of the black jumper cable to the working battery’s negative terminal. The opposite end of the black cable should be connected to a grounding bolt or other metal component of your vehicle. Connecting it to the negative terminal of your dead battery could spark, potentially damaging your car. Avoid doing this.
- Start the functioning vehicle and let it run for a while. The vehicle should now be running if you attempt to start it now.
Symptoms Of A Faulty Ignition Switch
If your automobile won’t start or if the ignition switch appears rusty or loose, it might be required to replace it. Here are some other signs that your ignition switch may be faulty:
- The engine cranks but doesn’t start
- The starter motor works, but the engine doesn’t turn over
- The key feels stuck in the ignition
- There’s a burning smell coming from the ignition area
- The dashboard lights flicker or come on and off randomly
Also Read: How to Start My Car without Chip Key
Safety Precautions Before Bypassing Ignition Switch
Before bypassing your ignition switch, taking some safety precautions is important. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Before initiating the bypass, make sure the vehicle is in park or neutral.
- Don’t bypass the ignition switch while the engine is running.
- Avoid damaging wires or other components while bypassing the ignition switch.
- If you’re uncomfortable working with electrical components, it’s best to leave this job to a professional.
Final Thoughts
After reading this manual, you will be able to start your car without the ignition switch. This really easy task only takes a few minutes to complete. You must keep in mind that this is only a temporary solution and that you should repair your ignition switch as soon as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it legal to bypass the ignition switch?
Yes, it is legal to bypass the ignition switch. You should be aware of a few things, though, before you do that. Before starting the engine, you must first make sure that your car is in park or neutral.
If your car is not in park or neutral, it can cause damage to the transmission. In order to prevent any nearby humans or animals from being hurt by an automobile that is driving ahead, you must first be aware of your surroundings. You should only attempt to bypass the ignition switch if you are experienced with working on cars and feel comfortable doing so.
What are the risks of bypassing the ignition switch?
Bypassing your ignition switch carries a number of risks. One is that your state might have laws against it. Another is that you might damage your car if you do not know what you are doing. There is always a chance that something could go wrong, leave you stranded, or result in an accident.
Are there alternative solutions to bypassing the ignition switch?
Yes, there are alternative solutions to bypassing the ignition switch. One popular solution is to use a jumper wire to bypass the switch. You can achieve this by attaching the jumper wire’s positive end to the battery terminal and its negative end to the starter solenoid. It will bypass the ignition switch and allow the car to start.
Another solution is to use a remote starter. It can be bought as an aftermarket item or installed by a professional. It will allow you to start your car without inserting a key into the ignition.
There are also ignition switches that come with a built-in bypass feature. You may start your car without inserting a key by using these switches in place of a standard ignition switch.
How much does a new ignition switch cost?
Depending on the make and model of your car, the price to replace an ignition switch can change. However, this repair often costs between $200 and $400. If you need to have your entire ignition system replaced, the cost can be closer to $1,000.
