How to Disconnect Auto Electrical Connectors

A car's electrical system is one of the most important parts to maintain in order for your vehicle to function correctly. Disconnecting auto electrical connectors is essential to being able to do this. While it may seem like an obvious skill, auto electrical connectors are designed to stay connected under high speeds and vibrations from the engine. It is far easier to damage the connection then to disconnect it unless you understand the basic design of their locking system. Once you understand this, you can disconnect auto electrical connectors of any type.

Things You'll Need

  • Small Scissors
  • DeoxIT D5 Connector & Contact Treatment
  • Pull the connection you want to disconnect up and away from the other wires around it. If you need to, use a pair of small scissors to cut the small plastic wire ties that may be holding the wires coming from the connection to the other bundles. You don't need much room but you will want to be able to get both your hands on the connection easily.

  • Look closely at the connection. There will be a "female" end and a "male end". The male end inserts into the female end. Once you have identified which is the female end, look for a tab on the top or sides of the connection. If one is present, hold the female end in one hand and push down or in on the locking tab to release it. If there is no tab, hold the female end firmly in one hand.

  • Pull the male end from the female receiver. Make sure you are grabbing the male end by the plastic of the connector and not the wires.