Why and How Should You Install a Vehicle Kill Switch

Each year, in spite of the numerous security features in modern-day cars, American drivers continue to be subject to over 715,000 cases of vehicle theft. Many of these cases could be rather easily prevented with the help of a remote kill switch.

If you have never used such a device before and you would like to know how a kill switch works, or who installs kill switches in cars, then keep reading. Our experts have prepared a comprehensive guide to help you understand what are the best types of kill switches to consider, how and where to install these devices, and what level of security they can provide. Let’s get started!

What Is a Kill Switch for Car Security?

Kill switches are additional switches that can be added to a vehicle to increase security and deter potential thieves from it. The devices are incorporated into the car’s circuit and they can be easily toggled on and off to engage and disengage the circuit and turn the engine on and off. Also referred to as kill switch immobilizers, these devices need to be accurately connected to one of the car’s crucial starting parts in order to allow it to kill the power in the respective part when switched on.

When a kill switch is turned off, the connection to the chosen car part is resumed, allowing the car to be turned on in a standard manner. More often than not, kill switches are small in size and they are well-hidden in areas where they are not easy to spot by potential thieves.

Different Types of Kill Switches for Cars

Based on the purposes they serve, there are several different types of kill switches for vehicles:

• Switches used to cut off the fuel

These kill switches work by cutting off the fuel and preventing it from reaching the engine. When the switch is toggled on, drivers are allowed to crank the engine since all the electricals are on. At the same time, the engine will not be able to fire because of the missing gas intake. These kill switches usually take the form of a knob for enhanced convenience in use. One drawback of this kill switch type is the fact that the wires may occasionally fail to work, this could cause the switch to either trigger or fail while driving, having the fuel pump die out of the blue.

• Switches that disconnect batteries

Disconnecting the battery from the vehicle is easily done with the help of these dedicated devices that serve this exact purpose. These kill switches are installed by first removing the negative connector and placing the devices there instead. When turned on, no power will be delivered to the electrical parts of the vehicle, which means the engine will not be cranked.

It is also possible to install these switches straight onto the terminal of the battery or to draw a wire inside the vehicle and install the switch in a location for easy reach to avoid having to open the hood every time this is needed. One of the greatest disadvantages attached to this type of kill switch is the fact that the vehicle will lose memory when the battery remains disconnected. In other words, drivers will need to reset the radio station, time, and everything else in between.

• Kill switches for ignition wiring

With the help of this particular remote kill switch for car ignition wiring, drivers can easily turn the ignition system on and off whenever necessary. This can be done by cutting the ignition wire and connecting both ends of the wires to a kill switch via a connector. Since this procedure requires cutting wires, this might void the vehicle’s warranty due to the risk of harm to the vehicle when not done correctly. This is why it is important to know who installs kill switches in cars and choose the most reliable service to benefit from professional solutions.

• Kill switches for fuse boxes

Fuse box kill switches prevent vehicles from getting power. When compared to battery disconnect switches, fuse box kill switches cut off the power straight from the fuse box, thus eradicating the need to remove the fuse and place it back in. One of the biggest drawbacks of these devices is the fact that they may generate additional issues with other electrical systems inside the vehicle, including the car headlights or the car airbags provided they are in too close proximity.

The greatest advantage of installing a fuse box kill switch comes from its non-invasive installation that does not involve any drilling through the car's fender or bodywork.

• Remote car battery switches

Remote car battery switches resemble switches used to disconnect batteries, but they feature an extra option for remote control. Drivers can this way turn the kill switch either on or off via the remote, which can be easily attached to the car keys. A remote car battery switch lets car owners control their vehicles without having to be physically located inside the vehicles.

As a main disadvantage of these devices, we can mention their high price tag. Nonetheless, our experts consider remote car battery switches to be the best kill switch option for cars.

Are All Kill Switches Good for Your Vehicle?

Whether you're thinking about installing a remote car battery switch, a kill switch for fuse boxes, or a device for ignition wires, any type of kill switch will add an important layer of security and protection against theft, especially when parked in an area with a lot of car theft incidents. Installing a kill switch in your vehicle does not cost too much and it also does not usually require a lot of tools and complicated procedures. When fitted by expert locksmiths with experience in the field, kill switches can successfully prevent a car from starting no matter what degree of destruction a thief might cause to the ignition switch or the locking mechanism on the steering column.

Kill Switches for Motorcycles

Motorcycle owners can also rely on kill switches also known as engine cut-off switches, or emergency switches, which are usually red safety mechanism buttons located on the right side of the handlebar. They are used to rapidly shut down the engine and switch proceed to start it back on without having to reach out for the keys.

One of the greatest advantages of these devices is the fact that they allow riders to easily switch the engine on and off without having to lift their hand from the throttle.

How Much Does It Cost to Install a Kill Switch?

Once the purpose of an engine kill switch is more clear, it might be helpful to know how much a kill switch installation costs. On average, the price of installing these devices runs around $20 up to $100, depending on the model and type of kill switch you wish to install and the car mechanic or car locksmith service you choose for installation. With the added labor charges, the final bill can go up to $400.

Final Thoughts

If you have any additional questions regarding what a car kill switch does, what types of kill switches are the best, and what are the recommended devices for your particular car model, do not hesitate to get in touch with us. We can provide you with expert tips and advice and hands-on experience with installing these excellent anti-theft alternatives. We also specialize in similar options including steering wheel locks, brake pedal locks, and wheel locks for complete car protection solutions.