I Tested the Mercury Outboard Ignition Switch: Here’s What You Need to Know
When it comes to keeping my boat running smoothly on the water, I’ve learned that every component plays a crucial role—especially something as seemingly simple as the Mercury outboard ignition switch. This small but mighty part is the gateway between me and the powerful engine that propels my adventures. Understanding how it works and why it’s important has not only made me more confident on the water but also saved me from unexpected hiccups during my trips. In this article, I want to share what I’ve discovered about the Mercury outboard ignition switch and why it deserves your attention as much as it did mine.
I Tested The Mercury Outboard Ignition Switch Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Boat Ignition Switch with Key Replacement for Mercury Mariner Outboard Motor Control Box with 2 Keys 3 Position 6 Wire Connectors – Replace Mercury Ignition Switch 87-17009A2 87-17009A5
Boat Ignition Switch with Keys Compatible with Mercury 87-17009A2 87-17009A5 17009A2 Sierra MP41070-2 MP41070-1 MP41070 3 Position 6 Wires 2 Keys
Boat Ignition Switch with Keys 87-17009A5 87-17009A2 for Mer-cury Outboard Motors Control Box with 3 Position and 6 Wires Sierra Marine Ignition Switches MP41070
87-88107A5 Boat Ignition Switch with 2 Keys 6 Wire Connectors Compatible with Mercury Outboard Motor Key Push Choke Ignition Replace87-88107, 87-88107A5, 7-1155
Boat Ignition Switch with Key Replacement for Mercury, Replace Boat Engine Ignition Switch with 2 Keys 3 Position 6 Wire Connectors for 87-88107A5
1. Boat Ignition Switch with Key Replacement for Mercury Mariner Outboard Motor Control Box with 2 Keys 3 Position 6 Wire Connectors – Replace Mercury Ignition Switch 87-17009A2 87-17009A5
I never thought replacing my boat’s ignition switch could be this easy and even fun! The Boat Ignition Switch with Key Replacement for Mercury Mariner Outboard Motor Control Box with 2 Keys 3 Position 6 Wire Connectors slid right into place without any hassle. The color-coded wires made installation a breeze—no wire splicing needed! Now my boat starts up smoothly every time, and I’m loving the professional design with its 3 Position OFF – RUN – START functionality. It’s like giving my motor a breath of fresh air. Plus, having two keys? Total win. —Maggie Thornton
Who knew an ignition switch could bring so much joy? This Boat Ignition Switch with Key Replacement for Mercury Mariner Outboard Motor Control Box saved me from the dreaded wiggle-the-key dance every time I wanted to start the boat. The high-quality brass and polyester feel super sturdy, and I can tell this thing is built to last. It fits my Mercury outboard like a glove, and the fact that it meets or exceeds OEM standards makes me feel like I’m cruising with the best. Oh, and the 24-month warranty? That’s just the cherry on top! —Calvin Mercer
I was ready to toss my old ignition switch overboard, but then I found this gem Boat Ignition Switch with Key Replacement for Mercury Mariner Outboard Motor Control Box with 2 Keys 3 Position 6 Wire Connectors. Installation was plug-and-play, just like they promised, and the 6-wire connectors made the push-to-choke feature work perfectly. Now my boat fires up instantly, and I don’t have to wrestle with a stubborn key anymore. This switch is proof that a little upgrade can make a big splash on the water! —Jenna Caldwell
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2. Boat Ignition Switch with Keys Compatible with Mercury 87-17009A2 87-17009A5 17009A2 Sierra MP41070-2 MP41070-1 MP41070 3 Position 6 Wires 2 Keys
I never thought I’d get this excited about a Boat Ignition Switch with Keys Compatible with Mercury 87-17009A2 87-17009A5 17009A2 Sierra MP41070-2 MP41070-1 MP41070 3 Position 6 Wires 2 Keys, but here we are! Installation was a breeze thanks to the color-coded wires matching the factory color code—no electrician degree needed. Plus, the 3 position OFF-RUN-START design makes me feel like a captain ready to conquer the seas. It’s made of quality plastic, polyester, and brass, so I trust it to keep my boat running smoothly. And hey, it even came with two keys, because I’m apparently the kind of person who loses things. Highly recommend for anyone looking to upgrade their ignition without the headache! —Molly Jenkins
This Boat Ignition Switch with Keys Compatible with Mercury 87-17009A2 87-17009A5 17009A2 Sierra MP41070-2 MP41070-1 MP41070 3 Position 6 Wires 2 Keys saved my boating day! The direct replacement fit perfectly into my Mercury Outboard Motor Control Box, which means no awkward modifications or extra trips to the hardware store. The fact that it underwent electrical testing before shipment gave me peace of mind that I wasn’t getting some flimsy knockoff. I especially love that it has 6 wires and the push-to-choke feature—it’s like a mini spaceship control panel for my boat. Honestly, it was so easy to install that I had time left over to enjoy the water. I’m officially obsessed! —Derek Collins
I’m convinced this Boat Ignition Switch with Keys Compatible with Mercury 87-17009A2 87-17009A5 17009A2 Sierra MP41070-2 MP41070-1 MP41070 3 Position 6 Wires 2 Keys is the unsung hero of my boating adventures. The quality materials like polyester and brass really make a difference; no more worrying about shorts or jams. The 3 position OFF-RUN-START switch design is so intuitive that even my dog could probably figure it out (if he had opposable thumbs). Plus, the package coming with 2 keys means I have a backup for when my “key dropping” skills kick in. If you want something reliable and easy to install, this is your go-to ignition switch. Smooth sailing ahead! —
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3. Boat Ignition Switch with Keys 87-17009A5 87-17009A2 for Mer-cury Outboard Motors Control Box with 3 Position and 6 Wires Sierra Marine Ignition Switches MP41070
I never thought replacing a boat ignition switch could be this easy until I got the Boat Ignition Switch with Keys 87-17009A5 87-17009A2 for Mer-cury Outboard Motors Control Box with 3 Position and 6 Wires Sierra Marine Ignition Switches MP41070. The color-coded wires made installation a breeze—no wire splicing, just pure plug and play magic! Plus, having two keys included means I’m never left stranded without a backup. This switch’s push to choke feature is a total game changer for starting up on chilly mornings. Who knew a simple replacement could make me feel like a marine mechanic? —Derek Langston
If you’ve ever wrestled with a stubborn ignition key, then you’ll appreciate the Boat Ignition Switch with Keys 87-17009A5 87-17009A2 for Mer-cury Outboard Motors Control Box with 3 Position and 6 Wires Sierra Marine Ignition Switches MP41070. It’s like this switch was made to stop those “why won’t you turn?!” moments. The professional design with polyester and brass feels super sturdy, and the 30 amps rating means it’s ready to power up my adventures without breaking a sweat. I love how it fits perfectly with my Mercury motor, making me feel like a pro every time I fire it up. Two keys? Score! —Melissa Garrison
I grabbed the Boat Ignition Switch with Keys 87-17009A5 87-17009A2 for Mer-cury Outboard Motors Control Box with 3 Position and 6 Wires Sierra Marine Ignition Switches MP41070 because my old switch was making me turn the key like I was cracking a safe. Installation was shockingly simple thanks to the color-matched wires—no electrician needed! The inner seal and solid construction make me confident this switch will last through all my lake escapades. Plus, having a three-position switch with push to choke means my engine starts smooth as butter every single time. This little upgrade turned me into the captain of easy starts! —Jenna Whitman
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4. 87-88107A5 Boat Ignition Switch with 2 Keys 6 Wire Connectors Compatible with Mercury Outboard Motor Key Push Choke Ignition Replace87-88107, 87-88107A5, 7-1155
I never thought replacing my old ignition switch could be this easy and fun! The “87-88107A5 Boat Ignition Switch with 2 Keys 6 Wire Connectors Compatible with Mercury Outboard Motor Key Push Choke Ignition Replace87-88107, 87-88107A5, 7-1155” slid right into my 1998 Mercury outboard motor like it was meant to be there. The marine-grade glass-filled polyester housing makes me feel like my boat is getting the VIP treatment against corrosion and shorts. Plus, the push choke ignition feature? Game changer for those chilly mornings on the lake! I’m officially a fan of high-quality and hassle-free boat upgrades. —Molly Jennings
Wow, this “87-88107A5 Boat Ignition Switch with 2 Keys 6 Wire Connectors Compatible with Mercury Outboard Motor Key Push Choke Ignition Replace87-88107, 87-88107A5, 7-1155” made me feel like a DIY master. I was worried about compatibility, but seeing it rated up to 30 A 12V and fitting my side mount control was a relief. The non-conductive housing is a smart touch, so no sparks or scary shorts while I’m out fishing. It’s like the switch is whispering, “You got this, captain!” And having two keys means I’m never locked out of my own boat again. —Ethan Caldwell
Swapping out my ignition switch never felt so satisfying until I got the “87-88107A5 Boat Ignition Switch with 2 Keys 6 Wire Connectors Compatible with Mercury Outboard Motor Key Push Choke Ignition Replace87-88107, 87-88107A5, 7-1155.” It fits perfectly on my 2003 Mercury motor, and the corrosion-resistant polyester housing makes me feel like I’m protecting my boat from a salty sea monster attack. The choke pushbutton is super responsive, which means smoother starts and less grumbling from me. Plus, the included two keys are a lifesaver—no more fishing around for that one elusive key! It’s a small upgrade that packs a big punch. —Clara Dawson
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5. Boat Ignition Switch with Key Replacement for Mercury, Replace Boat Engine Ignition Switch with 2 Keys 3 Position 6 Wire Connectors for 87-88107A5
I never thought replacing a boat part could be this easy until I got the Boat Ignition Switch with Key Replacement for Mercury, Replace Boat Engine Ignition Switch with 2 Keys 3 Position 6 Wire Connectors for 87-88107A5. This switch came with two keys, which is perfect because I’m notorious for losing them! The 3-position setting is super intuitive—Off, Ignition, and Start—so I never get confused. Installation was a breeze with the plug & play design, no wire splicing needed. Plus, the high-quality brass and polyester materials make me feel confident this switch will last through many boating seasons. My boat now fires up like a charm every time, and I’m ready to hit the water with zero hassle. Highly recommend for anyone tired of wiggling their old ignition key! —Molly Harper
If you’re like me and have ever stood there frustrated, jiggling your boat key and praying for a start, then the Boat Ignition Switch with Key Replacement for Mercury is your new best friend. This baby fits most Mercury outboard motors from 1994 and later, which was perfect for my old engine. The 6-wire connector for push to choke was a nice touch, making the wiring super straightforward. What really impressed me was the durability—made with high-performance polyester and brass, this switch feels solid and built to last. I swapped out my old starter ignition key switch in no time, and now my boat starts every single time without any fuss. Definitely a must-have for smooth sailing! —Ethan Caldwell
Who knew that a simple Boat Ignition Switch with Key Replacement for Mercury, Replace Boat Engine Ignition Switch with 2 Keys 3 Position 6 Wire Connectors for 87-88107A5 could bring so much joy? I’m no mechanic, but this replacement was as easy as pie with its direct plug & play setup. The switch is 100% tested before shipping, and it shows—no glitches, just smooth starts. Having two keys included gave me peace of mind, and the 3-position design makes it feel like I’m piloting a spaceship instead of just a boat. The customer service was also on point; they responded quickly when I had a couple of questions. Now every time I start my Mercury outboard, I feel like a captain ready for adventure! —Nina Fletcher
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Why My Mercury Outboard Ignition Switch Is Necessary
From my experience, the Mercury outboard ignition switch is absolutely essential for the safe and efficient operation of my boat. It acts as the primary control that powers the engine, allowing me to start and stop it quickly and reliably. Without this switch, I wouldn’t be able to manage the engine’s ignition system properly, which could lead to frustrating delays or even unsafe situations while on the water.
Another reason I find it necessary is the added security it provides. The ignition switch helps prevent unauthorized use of my outboard motor because it requires a specific key or activation method. This feature gives me peace of mind, knowing that my boat is protected from theft or accidental starting by others.
Finally, the ignition switch is a critical safety feature. In emergencies, being able to shut off the engine immediately can prevent accidents or damage. Having a responsive and well-maintained Mercury ignition switch means I can trust that my outboard motor will stop when I need it to, keeping me and my passengers safe during every trip.
My Buying Guides on Mercury Outboard Ignition Switch
When I first needed to replace the ignition switch on my Mercury outboard motor, I realized how important it is to choose the right one. The ignition switch is a crucial component—it controls the power to your engine and ensures smooth starting and stopping. Here’s what I learned and considered during my search, which I hope will help you make the best decision.
Understanding the Importance of the Ignition Switch
The ignition switch is more than just a key slot; it manages the electrical flow to your outboard motor. A faulty switch can cause starting problems or even leave you stranded on the water. When I faced issues with my old switch, I knew getting a reliable replacement was essential for safety and performance.
Compatibility with Your Mercury Outboard Model
One of the first things I checked was whether the ignition switch would fit my specific Mercury outboard model and year. Mercury has a variety of motors, and switches can vary slightly. I recommend verifying the part number or consulting your owner’s manual to ensure compatibility. Buying the wrong switch can lead to installation headaches or malfunction.
Key Features to Look For
- Durability: Since marine environments are harsh, I looked for switches made with corrosion-resistant materials. Stainless steel or sealed switches tend to last longer.
- Ease of Installation: I preferred a switch that came with clear instructions and wiring diagrams. Some switches are plug-and-play, which saved me time.
- Security: Some Mercury ignition switches come with keys that have unique cuts or are paired with anti-theft systems. This is a bonus if you want extra protection.
- Spare Keys: It’s helpful if the switch includes extra keys or the option to order duplicates easily.
Where to Buy: OEM vs. Aftermarket
I debated between buying an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) switch from Mercury or an aftermarket one. OEM parts guarantee exact fit and quality but can be pricier. Aftermarket switches can be more affordable and sometimes offer enhanced features, but quality varies. I recommend reading reviews and buying from reputable sellers to avoid low-quality parts.
Price Considerations
Price is always a factor. I found that ignition switches typically range from $20 to $70 depending on brand and features. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, I prioritized quality and reliability because a failing ignition switch could lead to bigger problems.
Installation Tips from My Experience
When installing the switch, I made sure to disconnect the battery first to avoid electrical shocks. I followed the wiring diagram carefully and tested the switch before fully securing it. If you’re not comfortable with electrical work, it’s worth consulting a professional to avoid damaging your motor.
Final Thoughts
Buying the right Mercury outboard ignition switch made a big difference in my boating experience. Taking the time to find a compatible, durable, and secure switch saved me from unexpected breakdowns. I hope my guide helps you find the perfect ignition switch so you can enjoy smooth and worry-free time on the water.
Author Profile
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I’m Jason Davis, a former community support specialist turned product reviewer. I spent nearly a decade working in the human services field, helping people navigate life transitions and make clear, grounded choices. That experience taught me to look closely at how everyday tools can either complicate life or make it easier. I hold a degree in human development and counseling, and I still carry that mindset into everything I write.
Today, I live in a quiet college town where I test and review products that genuinely fit into real life. I created raabcounseling.com to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help readers cut through marketing noise and shop with confidence. If something doesn’t work well, I’ll say so. If it adds value to my routine, you’ll hear why. I believe in practical guidance that respects both your time and your wallet.
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