How to Hotwire a Car
It’s not something everyone does, but knowing how to hotwire a car can come in handy in certain scenarios. It can be used to move an inoperable vehicle off a public right-of-way, or in other emergency situations. It should go without saying, but hotwiring a car is a violation of federal and state laws and should only be used in extreme emergencies or as a demonstration in a controlled environment.
Tools and Supplies Needed
It is best to be prepared with the right tools before attempting to hotwire a car. You will need a screwdriver, wire cutters, and a pair of wire strippers. In addition, you will need a reliable source of electricity, either a battery or a power inverter. Finally, it is helpful to have a diagram of the car’s electrical wiring.
Step 1: Locate the Wiring Harness
The first step is to locate the main wiring harness under the dash of the car. This harness is typically located behind or near the steering wheel. It is important to be aware that there are several other wiring harnesses in the car which must be avoided in order to successfully hotwire the car. If you are unsure of which harness to use, consult the car’s wiring diagram.
Step 2: Connect the Wires
Once the wires are located, use wire strippers to carefully strip approximately two inches of the wire insulation from each end of the wires. Once the wires are stripped, connect the two exposed wires to the power source, like the battery or a power inverter. When twisting the two wires together, be sure to use the correct size of wire connectors, as too small a connector could cause a fire.
Step 3: Jump-Start the Car
The next step is to jump-start the car. This is done by connecting a jumper cable to the positive terminal of the car’s battery and the other end of the cable to the positive terminal of the power source. Once the jumper cable is connected, turn the key and the car should start.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you should be able to successfully hotwire a car in an emergency situation. Be aware that hotwiring a car is illegal and should only be done as a last resort in an emergency situation. Be sure to take the necessary safety precautions, such as wearing safety glasses and gloves, to prevent electric shock or fire.
