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Where is the engine cutoff switch?

The engine cutoff switch, also known as the kill switch, is a safety device found on many types of motorized vehicles, including boats, motorcycles, and personal watercraft. This switch is designed to immediately shut off the engine in the event of an emergency or if the operator falls overboard.


Location of the Engine Cutoff Switch


The exact location of the engine cutoff switch can vary depending on the type of vehicle, but it is typically located in an easily accessible area near the operator's position. Here are some common locations for the engine cutoff switch:



  • On boats, the switch is usually found on the dashboard or control panel, within reach of the operator.

  • On motorcycles, the switch is often located on the handlebars, near the throttle grip.

  • On personal watercraft (PWCs), the switch is typically attached to a lanyard that the operator wears, so that the engine will shut off if the operator falls off the PWC.


It's important to familiarize yourself with the location of the engine cutoff switch on any vehicle you operate, as it can be a crucial safety feature in an emergency situation.


How the Engine Cutoff Switch Works


The engine cutoff switch works by interrupting the electrical circuit that powers the engine. When the switch is activated, it breaks the circuit, causing the engine to immediately shut off. This can be done manually by the operator, or automatically if the operator is separated from the vehicle.


On boats and PWCs, the lanyard attached to the switch is designed to pull the switch and shut off the engine if the operator falls overboard. This helps prevent the vehicle from continuing to operate without the operator, which could be dangerous.


Overall, the engine cutoff switch is an important safety feature that can help prevent accidents and save lives in the event of an emergency. It's crucial for operators to be aware of its location and how to use it effectively.

Do all cars have a fuel cut-off switch?


In most cars built today, there is no “cutoff” switch, as virtually all of them have electric fuel pumps, and when the ignition is off, the fuel pump gets no power, and so can't pump fuel.



Where is the engine fuel shutoff usually located?


The fuel shut off switch's location varies depending on the vehicle. It can be under a side panel next to the driver's door, the footrest area, or under the vehicle. The fuel pump shut off automatically stops fuel from flowing out the fuel tank. The location of the switch is often behind a piece of plastic.



Where is the fuel cutoff switch located?


It is typically located in the rear of the vehicle between the electric fuel pump and its power supply. It can be found on the passenger side in some vehicles, right behind the glove compartment. There should be a picture or wording that indicates the inertia switch is behind the plastic panel.



What is an engine cutoff switch?


Most powerboats and PWC come equipped by the manufacturer with an emergency engine cut-off switch (ECOS). If properly worn, this safety device can shut off the engine if the operator falls off the vessel or is thrown from the proper operating position. A lanyard connects the ECOS to the operator's wrist or PFD.



What is the engine cut off feature?


A vehicle start-stop system or stop-start system (also known as S&S, micro hybrid, or micro hybrid electric vehicle (μHEV)) automatically shuts down and restarts the internal combustion engine to reduce the amount of time the engine spends idling, thereby reducing fuel consumption and emissions.



Where is the engine cut off switch?


A standard engine cut-off switch is a small C-shaped clip attached to a spring-loaded button at the helm station, usually located in very close proximity to the ignition switch. The clip is attached to a lanyard, and the lanyard has a hook-clip on its far end.



What does main engine cut off mean?


A command to stop the throttled engines, signalled by computer then called out by the commander.



Where is the engine cut-off switch usually located?


A standard engine cut-off switch is a small C-shaped clip attached to a spring-loaded button at the helm station, usually located in very close proximity to the ignition switch. The clip is attached to a lanyard, and the lanyard has a hook-clip on its far end.



What is an engine cut off?


The idea behind an engine cut off switch is that if you are thrown overboard or even thrown down inside the boat, this will pull from here the ignition and it'll automatically stop the motors from running.



Where is the engine cut off switch if usually located?


The engine cut off switch is a safety device located on vehicles such as motorcycles and boats. On motorcycles, it's typically found on the right handlebar, referred to as a 'kill switch'. On boats, it can be on the console, often connected to a 'kill cord' worn by the operator.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.