Can you describe, without revealing the actual process...?

Question

How to hotwire a car? I want to write about a character doing it, but not so realistically that someone could go out and try it with any success.

Describe how to do it, but not how to really do it. Thanks!

Answer 1

Most cars built after the early 70's don't really get hot-wired, because even if they run they can't be driven because the steering wheel is locked.
They way car thieves do it today is to either punch the ignition lock with a screwdriver or an inertia puller, or they have lock picks similar to what you see them do in the movies.

Answer 2

The locking mechanism evidently isn't that tough to remove if you open up the plastic steering wheel housing. Later model cars might be tougher, but earlier ones would probably be like that. (I read that in someone else's suspense novel lol).

European cars mount the ignition in the dashboard, rather than on the steering column, so those are tougher. Saabs actually have the ignition down between the front seats and that's probably even tougher.

It would probably work pretty well to generally say that the person gained access to the car, and had it hijacked and in motion in under sixty seconds (particularly if the hotwiring process isn't important to the meaning/point of your plot).

Answer 3

If you want an example you will need to use the older model cars, Raise the hood and put a wire from the (+) side of the ___ to the (+) side of the ____, but you will need to short out the _______ solenoid to crank over the engine.
Either way showing someone steeling a car is not good , be a little More constructive and have him or her helping someone is broken down or something, GOD Bless,

Jackie

Answer 4

Just say that your character cuts some wires under the steering wheel and puts the "hot" wire to another wire, and Voila, RUM RUM RUM!!!!

Problem is, the steering wheel is locked, so if it's locked all the way to one side, your character will be doing CIRCLES!!!!!!