{"id":106293,"date":"2024-05-10T22:55:54","date_gmt":"2024-05-11T05:55:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogv2prod.wpenginepowered.com\/blog\/?p=106293"},"modified":"2026-05-15T01:04:51","modified_gmt":"2026-05-15T08:04:51","slug":"how-to-bypass-an-ignition-switch-plus-faqs","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/how-to-bypass-an-ignition-switch-plus-faqs\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Bypass an Ignition Switch Plus FAQs"},"content":{"rendered":"<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC \"-\/\/W3C\/\/DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional\/\/EN\" \"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/TR\/REC-html40\/loose.dtd\">\n<html><body><span class=\"span-reading-time rt-reading-time\" style=\"display: block;\"><span class=\"rt-label rt-prefix\">Reading Time: <\/span> <span class=\"rt-time\"> 7<\/span> <span class=\"rt-label rt-postfix\">minutes<\/span><\/span><style>.kadence-column106293_02199e-2a > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column106293_02199e-2a > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column106293_02199e-2a > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column106293_02199e-2a > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column106293_02199e-2a > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column106293_02199e-2a > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column106293_02199e-2a{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column106293_02199e-2a > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column106293_02199e-2a > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column106293_02199e-2a inner-column-1 qk-look-widget\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-ultimate-post-row ultp-block-95dfe1  qk-main-wrap\"><div class=\"ultp-row-wrapper\"><div class=\"ultp-row-content\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-ultimate-post-column ultp-block-9339e7\"><div class=\"ultp-column-wrapper\"><style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading106293_03a69d-5f, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading106293_03a69d-5f[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading106293_03a69d-5f\"]{text-align:center;font-size:20px;font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading106293_03a69d-5f mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading106293_03a69d-5f[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading106293_03a69d-5f\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-family:Inter;font-weight:500;font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading106293_03a69d-5f img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading106293_03a69d-5f[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading106293_03a69d-5f\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"kt-adv-heading106293_03a69d-5f summary-title wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading106293_03a69d-5f\"><span>Summary<\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The ignition switch is operated by the ignition cylinder, but is a separate part and is usually connected to the ignition cylinder with rods, gears, or some other type of linkage.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Worn-out contacts, corrosion, and damaged springs can cause an ignition switch to fail.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bypassing an ignition switch is extremely risky, costly, and should only be considered in an emergency situation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bypassing the ignition switch is practically impossible on modern vehicles.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>CAUTION:<\/em><\/strong><em> The methods described in this resource should be considered only in an emergency situation. <\/em><strong><em>Otherwise, never try to bypass the ignition switch.<\/em><\/strong><em> Doing so will cause significant damage to your car, resulting in costly repairs.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Important Notes:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">1. This resource only applies to operating the starter on a vehicle where turning the ignition switch to start fails to operate the starter but everything else works.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">2. As a rule of thumb, if your vehicle has passive anti-theft (Immobilizer), you can&rsquo;t bypass the ignition switch, anyway. <strong>This only works on cars built before 1994, so be aware.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/ignition-switch\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"ignition switch\">ignition switch<\/a> on older vehicles sends voltage to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/starter\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"starter\">starter<\/a> through the neutral safety switch or to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/starter-relay\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"starter relay\">starter relay<\/a>, which interacts with the neutral safety switch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This activity is only possible if you have the right key that fits into the tumbler. You&rsquo;ll need to turn the key from the off position to the start position.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On vehicles with immobilizer, the key has a chip that is activated when the ignition is switched on and the chip provides a digital code to the electronics. If the chip isn&rsquo;t recognized, the starter may not work, or if it does work, the engine may start and immediately die. This varies from vehicle to vehicle.<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column106293_d58347-a4 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column106293_d58347-a4 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column106293_d58347-a4 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column106293_d58347-a4 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column106293_d58347-a4 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column106293_d58347-a4 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column106293_d58347-a4{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column106293_d58347-a4 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column106293_d58347-a4 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column106293_d58347-a4 kb-section-dir-vertical kb-section-sm-dir-vertical inner-column-1 pro-tip-widget\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.kb-row-layout-id106293_8fd284-52 > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:start;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id106293_8fd284-52 > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:start;}.kb-row-layout-id106293_8fd284-52 > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-none, 0rem );row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);padding-top:20px;padding-right:32px;padding-bottom:20px;padding-left:16px;grid-template-columns:minmax(0, calc(10% - ((var(--global-kb-gap-none, 0rem ) * 1 )\/2)))minmax(0, calc(90% - ((var(--global-kb-gap-none, 0rem ) * 1 )\/2)));}.kb-row-layout-id106293_8fd284-52 > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.00;}.kb-row-layout-id106293_8fd284-52 .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep{height:100px;}.kb-row-layout-id106293_8fd284-52 .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep svg{width:100%;}.kb-row-layout-id106293_8fd284-52 .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep svg{fill:#ffffff!important;}.kb-row-layout-id106293_8fd284-52 .kt-row-layout-top-sep{height:100px;}.kb-row-layout-id106293_8fd284-52 .kt-row-layout-top-sep svg{width:100%;}.kb-row-layout-id106293_8fd284-52 .kt-row-layout-top-sep svg{fill:#ffffff!important;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id106293_8fd284-52 > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr) minmax(0, 2fr);}}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id106293_8fd284-52 .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep{height:px;}}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id106293_8fd284-52 .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep svg{width:%;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-id106293_8fd284-52 > .kt-row-column-wrap{padding-top:28px;padding-right:16px;padding-bottom:25px;padding-left:16px;grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr) minmax(0, 2fr);}.kb-row-layout-id106293_8fd284-52 .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep{height:px;}.kb-row-layout-id106293_8fd284-52 .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep svg{width:%;}}<\/style><div class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id106293_8fd284-52 alignnone pro-tip-wrap wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-2-columns kt-row-layout-right-golden kt-tab-layout-right-golden kt-mobile-layout-right-golden kt-row-valign-top\">\n<style>.kadence-column106293_43e896-22 > .kt-inside-inner-col{display:flex;}.kadence-column106293_43e896-22 > .kt-inside-inner-col{min-height:45px;}.kadence-column106293_43e896-22 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column106293_43e896-22 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column106293_43e896-22 > .kt-inside-inner-col{row-gap:0px;column-gap:0px;}.kadence-column106293_43e896-22 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:row;flex-wrap:wrap;align-items:center;}.kadence-column106293_43e896-22 > .kt-inside-inner-col > *, .kadence-column106293_43e896-22 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-image, .kadence-column106293_43e896-22 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-kadence-image{margin-top:0px;margin-bottom:0px;}.kadence-column106293_43e896-22 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image-is-ratio-size{flex-grow:1;}.kadence-column106293_43e896-22 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column106293_43e896-22{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column106293_43e896-22 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:row;flex-wrap:wrap;align-items:center;}}@media all and (min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column106293_43e896-22 > .kt-inside-inner-col > *, .kadence-column106293_43e896-22 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-image, .kadence-column106293_43e896-22 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-kadence-image{margin-top:0px;margin-bottom:0px;}.kadence-column106293_43e896-22 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image-is-ratio-size{flex-grow:1;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column106293_43e896-22 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:row;flex-wrap:wrap;justify-content:flex-start;}.kadence-column106293_43e896-22 > .kt-inside-inner-col > *, .kadence-column106293_43e896-22 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-image, .kadence-column106293_43e896-22 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-kadence-image{margin-top:0px;margin-bottom:0px;}.kadence-column106293_43e896-22 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image-is-ratio-size{flex-grow:1;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column106293_43e896-22 kb-section-dir-horizontal kb-section-md-dir-horizontal inner-column-1 pro-tip-item1\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.kb-image106293_f5d719-e9.kb-image-is-ratio-size, .kb-image106293_f5d719-e9 .kb-image-is-ratio-size{max-width:45px;width:100%;}.wp-block-kadence-column > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image106293_f5d719-e9.kb-image-is-ratio-size, .wp-block-kadence-column > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image106293_f5d719-e9 .kb-image-is-ratio-size{align-self:unset;}.kb-image106293_f5d719-e9 figure{max-width:45px;}.kb-image106293_f5d719-e9 .image-is-svg, .kb-image106293_f5d719-e9 .image-is-svg img{width:100%;}.kb-image106293_f5d719-e9 .kb-image-has-overlay:after{opacity:0.3;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-image kb-image106293_f5d719-e9\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/image\/upload\/f_auto,dpr_auto,q_auto,c_pad\/carparts\/blog\/widgets\/protip\/services-icon\" alt=\"\" class=\"kb-img\"><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column106293_231cbe-80 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column106293_231cbe-80 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column106293_231cbe-80 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column106293_231cbe-80 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column106293_231cbe-80 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column106293_231cbe-80 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column106293_231cbe-80{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column106293_231cbe-80 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column106293_231cbe-80 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column106293_231cbe-80 inner-column-2 pro-tip-item2\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<div class=\"protip-desc\">\n\t<div class=\"help-tip\">\n\t\t<p><strong>Pro Tips<\/strong> are nuggets of information direct from ASE-certified automobile technicians working with CarParts.com, which may include unique, personal insights based on their years of experience working in the automotive industry. These can help you make more informed decisions about your car.<\/p>\n\t<\/div>\n    <div class=\"help-caption\">\n        <p>\n            <strong>Pro Tip:<\/strong>\nNewer vehicles don&rsquo;t directly operate the starter with the ignition switch. They send a start request to the PCM or some other module, which then energizes the starter relay to operate the starter.\n        <\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Desperate Measures: Conducting an Ignition Bypass<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/bypassing-car-ignition-switch-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"bypassing car ignition switch\" class=\"wp-image-106296\" style=\"width:1024px;height:682px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/bypassing-car-ignition-switch-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/bypassing-car-ignition-switch-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/bypassing-car-ignition-switch-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/bypassing-car-ignition-switch-1536x1023.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/bypassing-car-ignition-switch-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/bypassing-car-ignition-switch-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/bypassing-car-ignition-switch-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/bypassing-car-ignition-switch.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Bypassing an ignition switch on an older vehicle can be done using several methods.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The worst time for an ignition switch to fail is when you&rsquo;re nowhere near an auto repair shop or when you&rsquo;re in a hurry to go somewhere important, but your car won&rsquo;t start. The mechanical descriptions for vehicle no-starts are &ldquo;cranks normally but won&rsquo;t start&rdquo; or &ldquo;no starter operation\/no crank,&rdquo; etc.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keep in mind that there are thousands of potential reasons that can cause a car not to start, and the ignition switch is only one of them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you bypass the ignition switch, even on an older vehicle and it turns out that the ignition module or neutral safety switch is the cause, you&rsquo;ve just wasted your time anyway.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>Caution:<\/em><\/strong><em> <\/em><em>Remember:<\/em><em> you aren&rsquo;t in a movie or TV show where you can pull random wires from under the dash, strip them with your fingernails, spark two of the wires together, and then drive away. The steering wheel and shifter are both locked unless the lock cylinder is turned to the on position, but if the switch has failed, more than one circuit might need to be bypassed to unlock the shifter even if the steering wheel is mechanically unlocked by turning the key to the on position.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Having said that, bypassing an ignition switch on an older vehicle can be done using several methods. These methods closely resemble the techniques other drivers use to start their cars without a key, but only if the steering wheel isn&rsquo;t locked by turning the key to the on position<em>. <\/em><strong>Even if you get the car started, you can&rsquo;t drive it without turning the steering wheel and putting it in gear.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are some tips on how to start a<strong><em> <\/em><\/strong><em>car with a bad ignition switch <\/em><strong><em>if spinning the starter is all it takes to get the engine started.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>Caution: <\/em><\/strong><em>Make absolutely sure the vehicle isn&rsquo;t in gear, and lock the park brake.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Using a Bypass Mechanism (pre-1994 &ndash; but pre 1970 is more likely)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A bypass mechanism relies on jumper wires to get the starter motor going.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Again, you must have a key to unlock the steering wheel and shifter. Sometimes the shifter won&rsquo;t unlock even though you bypassed the part of the switch that turns on the ignition and fuel system and then applied voltage to the circuit that causes the starter to spin the engine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To successfully bypass the ignition switch using jumper wires, you must first disconnect the battery. Of course, if the battery is disconnected, you can&rsquo;t start the engine anyway, so it&rsquo;ll need to be reconnected before you test your bypass attempt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Remove the necessary panels covering the ignition switch and look for the wiring harness that you&rsquo;ll connect to the jumper wire.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From there, attach one end of the jumper wire to the connection where the signal flows to the starter motor, and attach the other end to the battery. This will create a direct connection between the starter motor and the battery. You must have a momentary button switch wired in series between the battery and the starter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The last step is to turn the key to the ON position and press the button on the bypass wire. This should activate the starter. After that, you may release the button.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Try the Drill and Screwdriver Combo<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>Caution: This extreme method is not advisable because it can destroy the steering column. Do not do it if you don&rsquo;t need to. <\/em><\/strong><em>This method may only make sense if the ignition lock cylinder has failed so that the right key suddenly won&rsquo;t start the vehicle (this happens sometimes, believe it or not)<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This method involves drilling a hole into the ignition cylinder to create a makeshift keyhole that will fit the screwdriver.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keep in mind that this will permanently damage multiple parts of the ignition system, which could also mean additional repair expenses for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Via Hotwiring Tactics<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hotwiring is another method you can try to bypass the ignition switch. Really old vehicles (pre-1978) with the ignition key on the dash rather than on the steering column can be hot-wired, but you must know how to do it right, and it isn&rsquo;t a random process like you see in the movies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Similar to using a bypass mechanism, hotwiring involves creating a direct connection between the battery and the ignition system, and then briefly connecting power to the starter solenoid to spin the engine. But again, make sure the vehicle is in neutral and the park brake is locked. switch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You&rsquo;ll need to strip the panels and covers to get a good view of the starter, ignition, and battery wires. This is much harder on some vehicles than others, by the way, so don&rsquo;t think it&rsquo;ll be easy on every car.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These wires are generally color-coded, and it&rsquo;s important to have sufficient knowledge of automotive electrical systems to avoid causing permanent damage to the vehicle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You&rsquo;ll need wire strippers to remove the insulation from the individual wires before linking them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hotwiring might not work on some vehicles, especially those with advanced security features.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Know the Risks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tampering with the ignition system can cause serious damage to your vehicle, especially if you don&rsquo;t have the right tools and know-how on the subject matter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The bypass methods listed in the previous section should be treated as emergency tactics only, as these can result in more expensive repair tasks and inflict injury to the people involved if done incorrectly.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"rsi-card\">\n  <div class=\"rsi-thumb\">\n    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/d_noimage.jpg\/b_white\/e_sharpen,e_auto_brightness,e_auto_contrast\/f_auto\/q_auto:eco,dpr_auto\/w_873,h_873,c_pad\/images\/repd506205_1\">\n  <\/div>\n  <div class=\"rsi-info\">\n    <span class=\"rsi-title\">From Key to Crank: The Ignition Switch One-Job Order Sheet<\/span>\n    <span class=\"rsi-desc\">Build the right ignition switch order the first time by matching your cart to the job scope and catching fitment splits early.\n<\/span>\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/from-key-to-crank-the-ignition-switch-one-job-order-sheet-quickref\/?1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Discover Your Options\">Discover Your Options<\/a>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Signs of a Failing Ignition Switch<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Broken springs, worn-out contacts, and temperature problems will eventually cause the ignition switch to fail.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once the ignition switch breaks, your vehicle could exhibit the following symptoms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Key Won&rsquo;t Turn<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A key that won&rsquo;t turn all the way to the START position may be a sign of a damaged ignition lock cylinder or other related components.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your key won&rsquo;t turn, it&rsquo;s also likely that the engine won&rsquo;t be able to start.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Stalling<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/why-does-the-engine-stall-common-causes-and-how-to-prevent-them\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Stalling\">Stalling<\/a> is a symptom that can be caused by problems in more than one vehicle system. A damaged ignition switch could cause the engine to stall immediately after it starts or after you&rsquo;ve driven your vehicle for a while.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Flickering Dashboard Lights<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A faulty ignition switch could cause some electrical problems with your vehicle, such as flickering dashboard lights.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Quiet Starter<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The starter motor should make a sound that indicates a turning engine as soon as you turn the key to the START position. But if the starter fails to make a sound, it could mean that there&rsquo;s a problem with the ignition switch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Much Will a New Ignition Switch Cost?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The cost of a replacement ignition switch can range between $50 and $500, depending on factors like your preferred brand and your vehicle&rsquo;s specifications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Is It Legal to Bypass an Ignition Switch?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Regulations on conducting an ignition bypass can vary per state. Regardless, bypassing an ignition switch on a vehicle that&rsquo;s not yours is generally considered a punishable offense.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There&rsquo;s no harm in bypassing your own ignition system, but keep in mind that this is only a temporary solution to your vehicle&rsquo;s starting problems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Should you be able to do it successfully, a trip to the nearest auto repair shop should be your top priority. This will ensure that your vehicle gets a full workup and a trusted mechanic can conduct the necessary repairs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Bottomline<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Bypassing an ignition switch can be done in several ways, but the use of jumper wires is arguably the most common one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is, however, important to note that bypassing an ignition switch shouldn&rsquo;t be thought of as a long-term solution to your vehicle&rsquo;s starting problems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ignition switches are more likely to fail due to corrosion, broken springs, and worn-out contacts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once they do, the vehicle could exhibit symptoms like a no-start condition, a quiet starter, and flickering dashboard lights, among others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where to Get a New Ignition Switch<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After bypassing your ignition switch, don&rsquo;t wait too long before replacing it with a new one. Your ignition switch is likely to fail even after successfully bypassing it, which can cause your engine to stall. The last thing you want is for your engine to suddenly stall while driving in traffic, which can lead to an accident. For your own safety, it&rsquo;s best to replace it as soon as possible. Luckily, getting a replacement ignition switch is fast and easy with CarParts.com.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As a one-stop shop for all your auto needs, CarParts.com offers a wide selection of OE-grade ignition switches at different price points. You can use our search filters to find the ignition switch that fits your budget and other preferences. We want you to get the best deals every time, so we offer a price match guarantee. If you find a competitor selling the same product at a lower price, just let us know. We&rsquo;ll either match or beat their price on the spot!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Don&rsquo;t wait until your engine stalls before replacing your ignition switch. Check out our catalog of high-quality <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/ignition-switch\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"ignition switches\">ignition switches<\/a> at CarParts.com and get one for your vehicle today!<\/p>\n<\/body><\/html>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p><span class=\"span-reading-time rt-reading-time\" style=\"display: block;\"><span class=\"rt-label rt-prefix\">Reading Time: <\/span> <span class=\"rt-time\"> 7<\/span> <span class=\"rt-label rt-postfix\">minutes<\/span><\/span>CAUTION: The methods described in this resource should be considered only in an emergency situation. Otherwise, never try to bypass&#8230; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/how-to-bypass-an-ignition-switch-plus-faqs\/\" rel=\"nofollow\">Read More<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1651,"featured_media":106297,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_genesis_hide_title":false,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":false,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[52,3744],"tags":[1170],"ppma_author":[2607,2985],"class_list":["post-106293","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-diy","category-ignition-system","tag-ignition-switch-2","entry"],"acf":{"adrotate_specific_mobile_ad":"","adrotate_specific_desktop_ad":""},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.2 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>How to Bypass an Ignition Switch Plus FAQs - In The Garage with CarParts.com<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Bypassing an ignition switch can be done in several ways. Read on to find out how you can successfully bypass your vehicle\u2019s ignition switch.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/how-to-bypass-an-ignition-switch-plus-faqs\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"How to Bypass an Ignition Switch Plus FAQs - In The Garage with CarParts.com\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Bypassing an ignition switch can be done in several ways. Read on to find out how you can successfully bypass your vehicle\u2019s ignition switch.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/how-to-bypass-an-ignition-switch-plus-faqs\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"In The Garage with CarParts.com\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/carpartscom\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:author\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/carpartscom\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2024-05-11T05:55:54+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-05-15T08:04:51+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/ignition-switch-needs-to-be-bypassed.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"2048\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1364\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"CarParts.com Research Team, Richard McCuistian, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@https:\/\/twitter.com\/CarPartscom\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@carpartscom\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"CarParts.com Research Team\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"8 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/how-to-bypass-an-ignition-switch-plus-faqs\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/how-to-bypass-an-ignition-switch-plus-faqs\\\/\"},\"author\":[{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"$id\":\"1651\",\"name\":\"CarParts.com Research Team\",\"jobTitle\":\"Expert Automotive Writer\",\"description\":\"The CarParts.com Research Team is composed of experienced automotive and tech writers working with (ASE)-certified automobile technicians and automotive journalists to bring up-to-date, helpful information to car owners in the US. 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He has produced a coffee table book of digital watercolors called \u201cMemories of South Alabama\u201d created from his personal photos, along with a dozen Christian fiction short original novels and a collection of short stories, all available in Kindle or softcover format. Richard has written a 2,500-word Bible study every week for the past 20 years and uses it to teach a small group at his church every Sunday morning.\r\n\r\n<strong>Credentials:<\/strong>\r\n\r\n<ul class=\"author-list\">\r\n<li><p>ASE Certified for more than 30 years in 10 categories, including L1 Advanced Engine Performance and Light Vehicle Diesel.<\/p><\/li>\r\n<li><p>Professional Mechanic\/Technician for 25 years with experience on diesel and gasoline engines, vehicles and equipment (including hydraulics).<\/p><\/li>\r\n<li><p>Spent 5 years in fleet maintenance, 20 years in independent shops and dealerships (VW, Mazda, Renault, Jeep, Ford, Lincoln), specializing in driveability and electronics for the last 14 years of his career at the same dealership.<\/p><\/li>\r\n<li><p>Senior Contributing Editor at Motor Age Magazine, first published in Motor Age in May of 2000 and every year since. He has won two International Automotive Media Awards for technical articles published in trade magazines.<\/p><\/li>\r\n<li><p>Has attended hundreds of hours of automotive training from OEMs including GM, Volkswagen, Mazda, Renault, Jeep, Chrysler, as well as additional training at events like KC Vision and MACS (Mobile Air Climate Systems Association).<\/p><\/li>\r\n<li><p>Taught college level auto mechanics for 19 years.<\/p><\/li>\r\n<li><p>Has written for automotive training companies (including course development work for training companies in Canada and the Netherlands) and has been hired to teach professional trade show technician courses at multiple training events in Texas and Alabama.<\/p><\/li>\r\n<li><p>While still teaching at the college level, Richard launched a new automotive program in Geneva, Alabama, setting up a dual enrollment department in a new building, organizing the shop and classroom, teaching morning classes to high school students for 2 years while still teaching at the college in the afternoon.<\/p><\/li>\r\n<li><p>Richard\u2019s college program at Lurleen B. Wallace Community College worked at professional shop speed during his tenure to prepare graduates for production level work in the real world.<\/p><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>"}],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/106293","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1651"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=106293"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/106293\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/106297"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=106293"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=106293"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=106293"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/ppma_author?post=106293"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}