(Explained) How to Bypass the Ignition Switch On Riding Mower?

You’re trying to start your riding mower, but it’s not starting because the ignition switch fails or you’ve forgotten the key somewhere.

No matter what the situation is, there’s a solution to everything, and here the solution is you have to bypass the ignition switch. 

But how to bypass the ignition switch on the riding mower? 

• It’s simple, take out the ignition switch from the mower. 
• Take two pieces of wire, put one end of one wire, and add it to the top left corner, and the second to the bottom left corner. 
• Hold the second wire and add it into the bottom left corner again, then add the second end to the center of the right side. 
• The mower will start without an ignition switch.

If you’re still confused, no worry; it happens; that’s why we have discussed the process in detail below.

So scroll the page and find out the secret of starting the riding mower without an ignition switch. 

Why Does the Ignition Switch of Mower Fail?

Before we get into the details of bypassing the mower ignition switch, let’s understand why it fails. So you’ll be able to understand the reason behind the issue. 

The first reason we’ve found is every part has an expiry date, and the ignition switch might have worn out.

Additionally, hot temperatures, high humidity, dirt, or rust problems can damage the ignition switches.

The solution to these issues is for you to replace the ignition switch, which is pretty easy, and we’ll explain after the bypassing technique. 

Also Read: Ignition Coil Resistance Chart: (How To Test) 2023

Step-by-Step Guide to Bypass the Ignition Switch On Riding Mower

Here’s the step-by-step guide to bypassing the mower ignition switch. For this process, you need two pieces of wires, and that’s it. 

1. After you get two pieces of wires, remove the ignition switch from the mower. 
2. Once you remove the switch, you’ll see the wiring with a connector. 
3. Insert one end of the first wire in the top left corner and the second end in the bottom left corner. 
4. Then hold the second wire and add it into the bottom left corner and the second end to the center of the right side. 
5. The moment you connect the wire to the right side, the mower will start. 

How to Replace the Ignition Switch of a Lawn Mower?

The solution above was a one-time solution. You can’t carry the wires all the time with you to start the mower.

That’s why it’s important to attach a new ignition switch.

• Get a new ignition switch from the marketplace but make sure it’s similar to the one you have. 
• Detach the connector from the ignition switch. Then remove the old ignition switch from the mower. 
• Attach the new ignition switch to the same place and attach the connector with it.
• Lastly, test your ignition switch by starting the mower. 

Also Read: Cub Cadet Ignition Switch Problems

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can you replace the ignition switch of the mower yourself?

Yes, you can replace the ignition of the mower yourself; it’s not a difficult process.

All you need to do is get a new ignition switch and then follow the process below. 

1. Remove the old switch, and detach the connector. 
2. Add the new ignition switch to the mower. 
3. Lastly, attach the connector with the new ignition switch and start the mower. 

How do you hotwire a riding lawn mower ignition switch? 

To hotwire a riding lawn mower ignition switch, first, remove it.

You’ll see a connector attached with wires; you have to add both ends of two in it. 

1. Hold the first wire, and add one end in the top left and the second in the bottom left. 
2. Then, take a second wire, and add the first end in the bottom left and the second in the center of the right side. 
3. That’s how the riding mower will start without an ignition switch. 

How to test the riding mower ignition switch?

To test the riding mower ignition switch, first set the multimeter to the continuity setting.

Then remember, if you hear a beep sound while checking all terminals, it means it’s working fine.

1. Insert the key in the ignition switch in the off position. 
2. Connect the multimeter to G and M terminals, and check whether the multimeter is beeping or not.  
3. Repeat the same process but set the key to the starting position and attach wires from B to S. 

Conclusion

You’ve got the answer to how to bypass the ignition switch on the riding mower.

No doubt it’s an easy process and does not require any expensive tools, but it needs all of your attention.

You have to make sure you’re entering the wire into the right side of the connector. 

Once you’ve succeeded in starting the mower, do all of your work and then focus on replacing the switch.

The reason is the solution we’ve discussed above isn’t good for a long-term situation, so replace the ignition switch as soon as possible.