How to Start an ATV without a Key?

It can be so infuriating when you lose the key to your four-wheeler machine and you don’t have a spare or an immediate plan to fix the problem.

If you are eager to know what to do anytime you are faced with a situation like this, then we’ve got a way out for you.

We have the answers to the questions; How to start without a key? If you care to find out how then you’ve got to continue reading.

Alright, let’s proceed with the task at hand. It would surprise you that there are several methods you can adopt to start your machine without a key but to employ these methods, you will need some essential tools. 

To use your ATV without using a key or trying to bypass the ignition; you can begin by avoiding or bypassing the ignition, skipping the solenoid, using a screwdriver, and replacing the ignition switch or key.

The truth is even though you have a low-class ATV, as long as it is functioning, you can start your quad without a key.

In the first step, the switch acts as a circuit breaker that will send a signal to the electrical box of your ATV. No power transmission would occur when the key isn’t present, hence your engine isn’t going to start.

How to Start a Four-Wheeler without A Key?

These are some pretty easy steps that can help you get around starting your ATV without the ignition key.

1. Bypassing the Ignition

A lot of technicians, especially newbies, would prefer starting with this method. Ignition switches are mostly designed with two wires; one of the wires sends the power to the switch, while the other transfers power to your electric box when the key is inserted.

In order to bypass the ignition, you have to take the ignition switch out of the way by dismantling the switch or removing the two wires attached to it. But ensure you leave some slack on the wires in case you decide to change the ignition later.

After you have dismantled the switch, connect the wires, then the electric start will work; it most times does. Always remember that you have to connect the wires that lead to the engine and not the one that is channeled to the ignition.

Do not forget to detach the wires when you are done using the ATV, or your battery will drain. You can even get a switch to replace the ignition; then all you have to do is on or off.

2. Skip Solenoid

This method doesn’t work for all ATVs or four-wheelers, and machines that have only an electric option. The solenoid always lies by the battery and wiring harness. On a few quads, you might have to remove a panel to reach the solenoid.

Your ATV solenoid should have two major wires that come out from it, including other minor wires. Only concentrate on the two main wires.

Place a wrench across the connectors of the major wires. Once that’s done, the squad can start now.

This approach requires an extra sense of caution because if touch the frame or any other close part while doing this, you could damage your engine’s electrical parts.

3. Using a Screwdriver

It seems like a challenging method but of course, desperate times demand desperate measures, and that pretty much describes what this method is all about.

People sometimes use this approach for a robbery, so if you are caught cruising around town with a screwdriver pointing out from the ignition, then you’ve to be prepared in answering some questions to the cops.

To carry out this method, all you have to do is to get a screwdriver into the ignition, and then gently use it to turn on the ignition just as if it was the key. The screwdriver will break through the pins in the ignition allowing you to switch the ignition on.

Although we do not recommend this method as your first choice because it can damage your engine, plus your quad might even start anyways.

4. Change the Ignition Key

Changing the ignition of your machine is the best method on this list. Although in a case of emergency, this might not cut it as it would require a professional’s touch.

Suppose you forgot or misplaced your key and you are so far out of the trail, then you practically have no other option than to order the part and replace the ignition.

As we stated earlier, this works only somehow with the right technical knowledge. All you need to do is get a replacement from your manufacturer and then fix the problem.

Also, this method can be expensive, but it sure is the safest way.

Vital Tips

You should know that it is always best to practice always tapping up your wires after you cut them, in order to prevent exposure.

You might have gotten your hotwire job done the right way, but if any of the wires hit the frame, you stand a chance of having bigger problems in your hands.

Leave sufficient slack in the wires while trying to detach them, so you have enough room to work on them later.

Always try to prevent cutting the wires that are pretty close to your ignition, or anywhere that makes it difficult to reach the wires. You might want to work on the wires later on, like attaching an ignition switch.

Don’t speak about how easy it was too hot wire your quad and how you got it done. Maybe you were safe doing this, but always remember to be extremely cautious when you are dealing with machines.

What are the other Tools I need to get my ATV Started without using a key?

To start without a key you will need some tools. All the methods listed in this guide would require you to get some tools. Some of these tools include the screwdriver, pliers, wrench set, and T-handle set.

What if my ATV does not have a kick-start?

Before you get your ATV ensure it is designed with a pull start.

Although, it is unfortunate that most recently produced quads don’t have a pull start. But don’t worry because there’s always a way out of every situation.

You should begin by unhooking the ignition key from your electrical box. When you do this, your engine wouldn’t even need any key to start. This is the best method for machines without a pull start.

Wrap-up

We are certain that this information about how to start without using a key is going to be very helpful in showing you how to deal with starting your ATV when you do not have the key.

Ensure you follow the process accordingly and choose the methods that you can perform.

Remember you always exercise caution at all times. If you cannot perform any of the methods yourself, then it is best that you go to a professional for help.

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