How to Attach a Battery Cut off Switch

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There are three types of switches. First, a master switch. Second, a manual switch. And third, an electronic switch. A master switch is installed on the battery, and is mostly used to prevent battery loss and for long term storage. A manual switch goes inside the car, and works like a master switch. An electronic switch is controlled by car alarms (mostly). These instructions are for a master switch.

Steps

1. 1
   Buy a switch. Make sure that the switch is rated to handle the load of a car battery. Expect to pay over $20 for it. [1]

   2

2. Disconnect the ground/black battery cable (or red/positive if instructions say so).
3. 3
   Connect the switch to the now unconnected battery lug (positive side).
4. 4
   Connect the disconnected battery cable to the switch (positive sise).
5. 5
   Turn the switch on and test the car.

   
   

Tips

• If you need to do this with a manual switch, consult a mechanic.
• Some electrical and mechanical knowledge is required for manual and electronic switches.
• Disconnecting the battery on newer vehicles will erase the "learned memory" of the computers and may affect the way the car runs.
• Inexpensive, small chargers that plug into any powerpoint or cigarette lighter, can be purchased to keep computer memories and security codes from clearing. Or use a cliplead to keep the battery connected while you work - a light one will be enough to keep the computer going on standby, and will act like a fuse if you accidentally short something.

Warnings

• Be careful of any new installation that requires splicing of wires. Any sloppy connections can result in a short. As a matter of precaution, always install a fuse as well.

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