Hot wiring is essentially starting a vehicle's engine without a key. We've all seen those movies where the car thief (or hero) reaches under the steering column and twists two wires together to start a vehicle. Is it that easy in real life?
Well, before there were computers and electronic locking systems built into vehicles, hot-wiring was really that simple. But it's a little more complicated now that you have to deal with central computer systems that control the locking mechanisms.
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| hot wire a car |
However, if your vehicle was manufactured in the mid-1990s or earlier, you can wire it up with a few simple steps.
Important: Obviously, we are not advocating theft or suggesting that you should go out and wire someone else's car. This should only be used in an emergency or on your own car (if you feel you REALLY need to try).
Note: Hot-wiring a car can be dangerous to your personal safety and to the well-being of the vehicle. There is always a risk of electrical shock if proper precautions are not taken. The vehicle's wiring could also be damaged when hot wiring is attempted. Always make sure the car is in neutral with the emergency brake applied before attempting.
How to wire a car in 6 steps
When you put a key in the ignition of your vehicle and then turn it, an electrical circuit is normally generated that goes from the battery to the ignition and then to the starter motor. Once the starter is powered, it finally turns the engine and starts the car. So when you hotwire a vehicle, you generate this electrical circuit yourself without using a key.
Here's how to do it:
Step 1
The first thing to do is to take a screwdriver and place it in the keyhole of the ignition system (which is called the ignition rocker arm). Turn the screwdriver and see if it can start the car this way. With a small number of cars, that's all you'll have to do to start the engine. But for most vehicles, you'll have to continue with other steps.
Step 2
Use the screwdriver to remove the screws from the steering column cover. You should easily be able to see these screws on both sides of the steering column. Once they are removed, you will see access panels. Remove the access panels by simply pulling them off. Now the ignition system wires will be revealed.
Step 3
You should see 3 wire bundles with their own distinct colors. There is one bundle for the car's headlights, another for the wipers and heaters, and another for the battery and ignition. This last one is what you will focus on.
This harness will have wires connecting to the battery, starter and ignition system. Determine which wire is connected to the ignition system and which is connected to the battery. The battery wires are usually red, but there is no universal color system for ignition wires, so you will need to look up your make and model online or consult your owner's manual.
Read also: How to Tell If Your Vehicle Has A Failing Timing Belt
Step 4
Use a wire stripper to cut some of the insulation off of each end of the two wires. Now, simply take those ends and twist them with your hands and fingers. If done correctly, the ignition, radio and lights should all turn on.
Step 5
Next, you will want to find the wire that connects to the starter and also cut a piece of the insulation from its end. Take the end of the wire and have it touch the ends of the other two. (Do NOT try to twist the wires together as this is a live wire!) This should start the motor.
Step 6
Use electrical tape to cover the end of the live start wire. You don't want it to accidentally come in contact with you or something else and shock you or start a fire.
Other Tips
Run the engine a few times to make sure the car doesn't stall and you don't have to start over.
If the above process doesn't work and you're in an absolute emergency, take a cordless drill and drill into the keyhole about the length your key would normally fit. You may have to pull the drill out a few times while you are drilling as this will help get rid of the locking pins. Now remove the drill and insert the screwdriver, then turn it. Your engine should now start.
Keep in mind that even if you manage to wire the car, many cars have a steering wheel lock function that prevents the car from being driven (unless you go straight).