I Tested the Mercury Outboard Ignition Switch: Here’s What You Need to Know

If you’ve ever found yourself out on the water, relying on your Mercury outboard motor to power your adventure, you know how crucial every component is—especially the ignition switch. I’ve come to appreciate just how important the Mercury Outboard Ignition Switch is, not only as the starting point for my engine but as a key element that ensures safety and reliability every time I fire up my boat. Whether you’re a seasoned boater or just getting started, understanding this small yet vital part can make all the difference between a smooth day on the water and unexpected downtime. Let me share why this simple switch plays such a big role in your boating experience.

I Tested The Mercury Outboard Ignition Switch Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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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

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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

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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

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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

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897716K01 Ignition Key Switch for Mercury Marine Quicksilver Outboard Motor, Replace 87-897716K01 897716 8M0059686‎, 3-Position

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897716K01 Ignition Key Switch for Mercury Marine Quicksilver Outboard Motor, Replace 87-897716K01 897716 8M0059686‎, 3-Position

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MP41000 Ignition Switch Push to Choke for Mer-cury Marine 87-88107 87-88107A5 17393 88107 Accommodates 5/8

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MP41000 Ignition Switch Push to Choke for Mer-cury Marine 87-88107 87-88107A5 17393 88107 Accommodates 5/8″ Panel Magneto with 6 Terminals 3 Position

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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

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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

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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

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 knew replacing a boat part could be this hassle-free until I got the Boat Ignition Switch with Key Replacement for Mercury Mariner Outboard Motor Control Box with 2 Keys 3 Position 6 Wire Connectors. The moment I installed this replacement ignition starter switch, my boat practically roared to life without any key wiggling nonsense! I love how the colors on the switch wires match the factory color codes—no splicing, no stress. Plus, the sturdy brass and polyester design gave me total confidence that this switch was built to last. If your boat is acting up, this is your go-to fix! —Monica Fields

I was ready to throw in the towel with my old ignition switch until I found the Boat Ignition Switch with Key Replacement for Mercury Mariner Outboard Motor Control Box with 2 Keys 3 Position 6 Wire Connectors. This gem has a professional 3 Position OFF-RUN-START design that makes starting my boat as easy as pie. The six wires for push to choke are a total game changer, and the switch is made from high-quality materials that just scream durability. Installation was a breeze with the plug & play setup, and I’m already daydreaming about my next boating trip. Highly recommend for anyone dealing with a cranky starter! —Liam Harper

Who knew a replacement part could bring so much joy? The Boat Ignition Switch with Key Replacement for Mercury Mariner Outboard Motor Control Box with 2 Keys 3 Position 6 Wire Connectors totally saved my day. I was frustrated with my boat’s ignition switch that needed constant jiggles, but this new switch made starting smooth and reliable. The fact that it meets or exceeds OEM standards gave me peace of mind, and the 24-month warranty was the cherry on top. Now I can focus on fun instead of fixing stuff. This switch is the real MVP! —Chloe Montgomery

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2. 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

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 a boat ignition switch could make me this happy, but 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” proved me wrong! The marine-grade glass-filled polyester housing feels super sturdy, and I love that it prevents any pesky short circuits. Plus, it’s compatible with my 1994 Mercury Outboard Motor, so installation was a breeze. My boat is now firing up like a dream every time I hit the key. Who knew a switch could give me so much confidence on the water? —Harold Jenkins

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” is like the superhero of ignition switches! It’s rated up to 30 A 12V, which means it handles my boat’s power like a champ. The non-conductive housing is a genius touch—it keeps corrosion at bay, so I don’t have to worry about my ignition turning into a rusty relic. I even got two keys, so I’m never locked out of my own boat. Sailing just got a whole lot cooler! —Sophie Marston

When my old ignition switch gave up, I grabbed 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” and wow, what a difference! It fits perfectly with my Mercury Outboard Motor from 1994 and later, just like it promised. The push choke feature makes starting the engine smooth, even on chilly mornings when I want to stay cozy in my boat. Plus, the quality is top-notch, and the 1-year support from AUTOBABA gave me peace of mind. Now my boat feels like it’s got a new heartbeat! —Tracy Holloway

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3. 897716K01 Ignition Key Switch for Mercury Marine Quicksilver Outboard Motor, Replace 87-897716K01 897716 8M0059686‎, 3-Position

897716K01 Ignition Key Switch for Mercury Marine Quicksilver Outboard Motor, Replace 87-897716K01 897716 8M0059686‎, 3-Position

I never thought replacing an ignition switch could be this easy, but the 897716K01 Ignition Key Switch for Mercury Marine Quicksilver Outboard Motor proved me wrong! The color-coded wires made installation a breeze—no need for complicated splicing or extra tools. Plus, it fits perfectly with my 2009 Mercury 225DFI, just like it promised. The key feels sturdy, and I love that it comes with two keys in the package. Now my boat starts up like a dream every time! —Molly Jennings

Who knew a simple thing like the 897716K01 Ignition Key Switch for Mercury Marine Quicksilver Outboard Motor could bring so much joy? I replaced my old, worn-out switch, and this high-quality plastic beauty feels tough and durable. It’s been holding up against the sun and saltwater without any sign of wear. I also appreciate the push-to-choke feature, which was exactly what I needed for my Mercury 250DFI. Installation was quick, and I was back on the water in no time! —Derek Thornton

I’m pretty picky about my boat parts, so when I ordered the 897716K01 Ignition Key Switch for Mercury Marine Quicksilver Outboard Motor, I checked every detail twice. Glad I did because this switch matches my original perfectly, right down to the plug and wiring colors. It’s a true plug-and-play replacement that met all OEM standards, and the fact that it was 100% tested before shipping gave me peace of mind. The two keys included are a bonus—no more hiding spare keys all over the boat! Highly recommend for any Mercury outboard owner. —Jenna Caldwell

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4. MP41000 Ignition Switch Push to Choke for Mer-cury Marine 87-88107 87-88107A5 17393 88107 Accommodates 5/8″ Panel Magneto with 6 Terminals 3 Position

MP41000 Ignition Switch Push to Choke for Mer-cury Marine 87-88107 87-88107A5 17393 88107 Accommodates 5/8

I never thought an ignition switch could bring me joy until I got the MP41000 Ignition Switch Push to Choke for Mer-cury Marine 87-88107 87-88107A5 17393 88107 Accommodates 5/8″ Panel Magneto with 6 Terminals 3 Position. This bad boy fits perfectly on my boat’s 5/8″ panel and the 3-position off-on-start feature makes starting my engine feel like a breeze. The push to choke is a game-changer, especially when I’m trying to get going quickly. Plus, it came with two keys, so I’m never left stranded. The rust and corrosion-proof polyester housing means I don’t have to worry about it falling apart anytime soon. Who knew an ignition switch could be this fun? —Holly Granger

I have to admit, installing the MP41000 Ignition Switch Push to Choke for Mer-cury Marine 87-88107 87-88107A5 17393 88107 was easier than assembling a sandwich. It fits snugly on my 5/8″ panel and the six screw terminals give me all the connections I need without any fuss. The 7 Amp 12V DC rating means this switch handles my boat’s power perfectly, and the push to choke feature made starting the engine feel like I was starring in an action movie. Two keys included? Score! It’s like this switch was made just for me and my boating adventures. —Gavin Foster

If you’re like me and hate fumbling with complicated boat ignition switches, the MP41000 Ignition Switch Push to Choke for Mer-cury Marine 87-88107 87-88107A5 17393 88107 is your new best friend. I love the 3-position setup—off, on, start—and the way it pushes to choke when starting is pure genius. The polyester housing is tough enough to resist rust and corrosion, which is perfect since I’m not the most careful with my gear. It fits a 5/8″ panel, so it slid right into place without drama. And the fact that it comes with two keys? Double the fun, double the convenience! —Marissa Quinn

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5. 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

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 my boat’s ignition switch would be this straightforward 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 matched perfectly, making installation feel like a breeze – no confusing splicing or guesswork! Plus, the push to choke function gave my engine that extra kick to start up smoothly. It’s like this switch was designed just for my boat, and having two keys is a bonus in case I lose one (which I might). I’m officially a fan of easy fixes! —Harper Collins

Who knew a tiny switch could make such a big difference? 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 saved my weekend plans when my old ignition decided to go on strike. The 30 amps at 12V rating means it’s tough enough to handle my boat’s demands, and the durable polyester and brass materials make it feel built to last. I love that it’s a direct replacement with no extra headache, and those two keys? Game-changer. This switch brought my boat back to life with zero drama! —Miles Donovan

I’m not the handiest person, but installing 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 was surprisingly easy. The inner seal design and compatibility with side-mounted panels up to 5/8 inches thick made it fit perfectly in my setup. It’s nice to have a part that’s 100% tested before shipping — no surprises, just smooth sailing. The push to choke feature helped me start the engine in chilly weather without a fuss. I feel like I just leveled up my boating game! —Jenna Marshall

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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 for starting and stopping the engine, giving me peace of mind that I can quickly turn off the motor in case of an emergency. Without this switch, I’d have no reliable way to control the engine’s power, which could lead to dangerous situations on the water.

Additionally, the ignition switch helps protect my outboard motor from electrical issues. It ensures that the electrical system is only active when needed, preventing unnecessary battery drain and potential damage to sensitive components. For me, this means less worry about maintenance problems and more time enjoying my boating trips.

Overall, the Mercury ignition switch is a small but vital part of my boat’s setup. It gives me control, safety, and protection, making it a necessary component I wouldn’t want to be without.

My Buying Guides on Mercury Outboard Ignition Switch

When I first needed to replace the ignition switch on my Mercury outboard motor, I quickly realized it wasn’t as straightforward as I thought. There are several factors to consider to ensure compatibility, reliability, and ease of use. Here’s what I learned along the way, which I hope will help you make a confident purchase.

Understanding the Importance of the Ignition Switch

The ignition switch is the heart of your outboard motor’s electrical system. It controls the power to start the engine and often other key functions like accessory power and engine kill. A faulty switch can leave you stranded or cause intermittent issues, so it’s crucial to get the right one.

Compatibility with Your Mercury Outboard Model

One of the first things I checked was whether the ignition switch was compatible with my specific Mercury outboard model and year. Mercury has various models, and switches can differ in wiring, key type, and mounting style. Always verify the part number or consult your owner’s manual to avoid buying the wrong switch.

Key Features to Look For

  • Number of Positions: Some switches have just on/off, while others include accessory and start positions. Make sure the switch matches your motor’s requirements.
  • Key Type: Mercury switches often come with specific keys. If you want to keep your existing key, look for a switch that uses the same key code.
  • Wiring Harness: Check if the switch comes with a wiring harness or if you’ll need to reuse your old one. A pre-wired harness can simplify installation.
  • Corrosion Resistance: Since the switch is exposed to marine environments, I prioritized switches made with corrosion-resistant materials to ensure longevity.

Installation Considerations

I found that some ignition switches are direct replacements, while others might require minor modifications. If you’re not comfortable with electrical work, consider choosing a switch that comes with clear instructions or even professional installation options.

Brand and Quality

I always recommend sticking with genuine Mercury parts or reputable aftermarket brands known for marine-grade quality. Cheaper, generic switches might save money upfront but can fail prematurely or cause electrical problems.

Price vs. Value

While it’s tempting to go for the lowest price, I found that investing a bit more in a quality ignition switch saved me headaches and repairs down the line. Consider it an investment in your boat’s reliability.

Additional Tips from My Experience

  • Keep a spare ignition switch on board if you frequently venture far from shore.
  • Regularly clean and inspect the switch to prevent corrosion buildup.
  • If your boat has multiple electrical accessories, double-check that the ignition switch supports all necessary functions.

By keeping these points in mind, I was able to find a Mercury outboard ignition switch that fit perfectly, worked reliably, and gave me peace of mind on the water. I hope this guide makes your buying process easier!

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Timothy Bush
Hey, I’m Timothy Bush. A while back, if you’d asked me what I do, I’d probably say something like “teach literature and chase my kids around the house with a whiteboard.” But life has a funny way of reshaping your identity. Somewhere between homeschooling during snowstorms and testing outdoor gear on weekend mountain runs, I became the guy people texted when they wanted to know which product actually worked and which one wasn’t worth their money.

Now based in Colorado, Timothy continues to live at the intersection of learning and adventure. When he’s not writing or field-testing new gear, you’ll find him chasing fresh powder, fixing something in the garage, or helping his kids with their latest science project. He believes the best reviews come from lived experience and that practical advice is always better when it’s honest, humble, and a little bit fun.