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How To Put A Kill Switch In Your Car [Step-By-Step]

Learn how to install a kill switch in your car to enhance safety and prevent theft. We'll cover the process, step-by-step.

Key Takeaways

  • Buy a compatible kill switch and read your car’s manual.
  • Hide the switch in a unique, hard-to-find place.
  • Disconnect battery cables before installation for safety.
  • Securely install the kill switch and reconnect battery cables.

Learning to install a kill switch is crucial for protecting your car against theft, especially since newer models don’t come with one pre-installed.

This guide will teach you the simple yet essential process of adding a kill switch to your vehicle, offering both theft protection and emergency benefits.

Having lost a car to theft myself, I’ve discovered the importance of this security feature. Let’s dive into the basics of kill switch installation to safeguard your car.

What You’ll Need to Install a Kill Switch

How To Put A Kill Switch In Your Car: button with a sign reading Kill Switch

Installing a kill switch is not as hard as you might think, and you can always use the help of a professional if you’re not sure of your skills.

But if you do decide to install it yourself, I’ve compiled a shortlist with all the steps you need to follow to successfully install the switch. 

First, let’s see what you will need for the installation.

Tools you will need:

  • Electrical wire
  • Solder
  • Wire wrap
  • Voltmeter
  • Screwdriver

After you get everything on this list, you can start with the installation following the steps I’ve listed below.

Installation steps:

  1. Purchase a kill switch
  2. Choose a good place to hide the switch
  3. Detach cables and terminal from the battery
  4. Attach kill switch wires
  5. Put the housing of the switch in the desired place
  6. Attach the battery cables again

How To Install a Kill Switch In Your Car [Step-By-Step]

To make it easier for you, I’m gonna break down the key steps one by one. Just follow the procedure and you will be good to go.

Step 1: Purchase a kill switch

Before purchasing a kill switch, carefully read the car manual and get to know the battery power and other components that have to match the kill switch. Otherwise, you will burn out the switch and just waste money.

Step 2: Choose a good place to hide the switch

A professional thief already knows all the common places to hide a kill switch, so he can just turn it off and still drive off with your car. So choose a unique hiding place to be sure it won’t be found so easily.

Just an idea – if there is a button in your car that you think has a useless function, you can exchange it with the switch. It’s a ‘‘hiding it in plain sight’ kinda thing.

Step 3: Detach cables and terminal from the battery

Before you start working on the installation, disconnect both the positive and negative cables from the battery for your own safety. Also, it’s a good idea to clean them before attaching them again.

Step 4: Attach kill switch wires

After you’ve disconnected all the components, attach the kill switch wires between the terminus and wire of the battery.

Step 5: Put the housing of the switch in the desired place

After you’ve found the right place, mark the spots and then drill holes. Put the kill switch and secure it in place.

Step 6:  Attach the battery cables again

Once you’ve done all the steps and secured the switch, attach the cables and terminal again. If you still don’t quite understand the process, here’s a video presentation.

Does the kill switch really work?

Yes, it does. But remember, even though this is a very good way to get some extra safety concerning your car, it’s not a full-proof method of preservation.

As I said before, a professional thief can find the switch 9 out of 10 times. But it can save you from amateurs so at least that’s something.

However, you shouldn’t rely entirely on the kill switch. Here are some additional tips to secure your car.

1. Install a security system

You can install a security system in your home and even some additional alarms in your car.

However, if you don’t want to put in the extra money, you can always just put up a sign that you have a security system without actually installing it. It’s not a 100% effective method, but it will scare off most thieves.

2. Be careful where you park

Always look for the safest places to park. That means look for well-lit areas or closed parking lots with guards.

You will most likely have to pay a little more for those, but your car will be safe.

Avoid dark places with a low flow of people, those are the best places for thieves to operate without being seen.

3. GPS tracker

This tip is actually good if your car does get stolen. It doesn’t really prevent theft, but it helps you track your car after it gets stolen so you can find it more easily.

However, always remember, don’t follow your car by yourself. Always call the police and let them handle it.

Final Thoughts

I think today we covered all the important information you need to have for installing a kill switch. Just follow the installation guide and you will easily set it up. If not sure, I’m gonna say it again, enlist professional help.

I think it’s important to do everything in your power to protect your car at all times. Installing a kill switch is a good way to do that. If you decide to install it, let me know.

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