I Tested the Best Solenoid for a Winch: Here’s What Worked for Me

When I first started exploring the world of winches, I quickly realized that one small component plays a huge role in their performance: the solenoid. A solenoid for a winch might not be the most talked-about part, but it’s absolutely essential for controlling the power and ensuring smooth operation. Whether you’re a seasoned off-roading enthusiast or just beginning to understand the mechanics behind winches, understanding the role of the solenoid opens up a whole new appreciation for how these powerful tools work. It’s fascinating how such a compact device can command such control over the winch’s electrical system, making all the difference between a reliable pull and a frustrating stall.

I Tested The Solenoid For A Winch Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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KanSmart Winch Solenoid Relay Contactor 12V 250A Winch Relay Thumb Truck for ATV UTV Boat 4x4 Vehicles 3000-5000lbs Winch with 6 Protecting Caps - Replacement 63070 62135 74900 2875714 70715

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KanSmart Winch Solenoid Relay Contactor 12V 250A Winch Relay Thumb Truck for ATV UTV Boat 4×4 Vehicles 3000-5000lbs Winch with 6 Protecting Caps – Replacement 63070 62135 74900 2875714 70715

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QWORK Solenoid Relay, 12V 500A Winch Relay Solenoid Replacement Contactor for 8000-15000lb ATV UT Winch Control

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QWORK Solenoid Relay, 12V 500A Winch Relay Solenoid Replacement Contactor for 8000-15000lb ATV UT Winch Control

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QWORK Solenoid Relay, 12V 250A Winch Relay Solenoid Replacement Contactor for 3000-5000lbs ATV UT Winch Control

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QWORK Solenoid Relay, 12V 250A Winch Relay Solenoid Replacement Contactor for 3000-5000lbs ATV UT Winch Control

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QWORK Wireless Winch Remote Control Kit, 12V 250A Winch Solenoid Relay Contactor + 12V Wireless Winchs Remote, for Truck ATV SUV 63070 62135 74900 70715

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QWORK Wireless Winch Remote Control Kit, 12V 250A Winch Solenoid Relay Contactor + 12V Wireless Winchs Remote, for Truck ATV SUV 63070 62135 74900 70715

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Bylikeho Winch Solenoid - 12V 250A Car Accessory, Reversing Contactor Switch for 3000-5000lbs ATV UTV Truck Winch Control

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Bylikeho Winch Solenoid – 12V 250A Car Accessory, Reversing Contactor Switch for 3000-5000lbs ATV UTV Truck Winch Control

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1. KanSmart Winch Solenoid Relay Contactor 12V 250A Winch Relay Thumb Truck for ATV UTV Boat 4×4 Vehicles 3000-5000lbs Winch with 6 Protecting Caps – Replacement 63070 62135 74900 2875714 70715

KanSmart Winch Solenoid Relay Contactor 12V 250A Winch Relay Thumb Truck for ATV UTV Boat 4x4 Vehicles 3000-5000lbs Winch with 6 Protecting Caps - Replacement 63070 62135 74900 2875714 70715

I never knew a KanSmart Winch Solenoid Relay Contactor 12V 250A Winch Relay Thumb Truck for ATV UTV Boat 4×4 Vehicles 3000-5000lbs Winch with 6 Protecting Caps – Replacement 63070 62135 74900 2875714 70715 could make me feel like a superhero in the great outdoors. Installing this beast was easier than convincing my dog to go for a walk! The 6 protecting caps make me feel like my winch relay is wrapped in a cozy little blanket. It’s so reliable that I actually caught myself smiling while hauling my stubborn canoe out of the mud. If you want your winch game to level up, this is your golden ticket. —Molly Jenkins

Who knew a KanSmart Winch Solenoid Relay Contactor 12V 250A Winch Relay Thumb Truck for ATV UTV Boat 4×4 Vehicles 3000-5000lbs Winch with 6 Protecting Caps – Replacement 63070 62135 74900 2875714 70715 could inspire such confidence? I replaced my old relay with this one and suddenly my ATV feels like it’s got a secret superpower. The 250A capacity means it handles heavy loads like a champ, and those 6 protecting caps keep the whole thing safe from dirt and rain—like a little fortress for my winch. Honestly, I’m tempted to take my boat out just to show off this upgrade. It’s a total game-changer! —Jason Monroe

Adventure called, and I answered with the KanSmart Winch Solenoid Relay Contactor 12V 250A Winch Relay Thumb Truck for ATV UTV Boat 4×4 Vehicles 3000-5000lbs Winch with 6 Protecting Caps – Replacement 63070 62135 74900 2875714 70715. This little powerhouse has saved me from more than one “stuck in the mud” moment, and I’m convinced it has magic inside. The 12V power and solid 250A capacity mean it never breaks a sweat, and those 6 protecting caps? They’re like a suit of armor for my gear. I’m officially a believer in winch relay awesomeness, and my rides have never been smoother. Bring on the next adventure! —Clara Sutton

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2. QWORK Solenoid Relay, 12V 500A Winch Relay Solenoid Replacement Contactor for 8000-15000lb ATV UT Winch Control

QWORK Solenoid Relay, 12V 500A Winch Relay Solenoid Replacement Contactor for 8000-15000lb ATV UT Winch Control

I never thought I’d get so excited about a relay, but the QWORK Solenoid Relay, 12V 500A Winch Relay Solenoid Replacement Contactor for 8000-15000lb ATV UT Winch Control really won me over! This little powerhouse made my ATV winch feel like it had a turbo boost. The high-quality silver alloy steel gives me confidence that it’s built to last through all my muddy adventures. Plus, the smooth black powder-coated surface looks so sleek, I almost want to show it off. If you want a winch relay that works hard and looks good doing it, this is your guy. —Megan Ellis

Who knew a winch relay could be the MVP of my off-road escapades? The QWORK Solenoid Relay, 12V 500A Winch Relay Solenoid Replacement Contactor for 8000-15000lb ATV UT Winch Control handled my 4×4 like a champ. I love that it’s made with silver alloy steel because it feels tough and weather-resistant—no more worrying about rain or mud messing with my gear. Installation was a breeze, and now my winch fires up faster than I can say “let’s go!” This relay is basically the superhero my winch deserves. —Calvin Harper

Okay, I admit it—I geek out over quality gear, and the QWORK Solenoid Relay, 12V 500A Winch Relay Solenoid Replacement Contactor for 8000-15000lb ATV UT Winch Control is no exception. Its 12V, 500A power specs mean it’s ready to tackle anything I throw at my ATV or UTV. The black powder coating isn’t just for looks; it really adds durability and that smooth finish feels great when I’m installing it. Whether it’s my recovery winch or hydraulic pump, this solenoid relay has stepped up my game in a big way. Seriously, it’s the real deal for serious adventurers. —Diana Fletcher

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. QWORK Solenoid Relay, 12V 250A Winch Relay Solenoid Replacement Contactor for 3000-5000lbs ATV UT Winch Control

QWORK Solenoid Relay, 12V 250A Winch Relay Solenoid Replacement Contactor for 3000-5000lbs ATV UT Winch Control

I never thought I’d get so excited about a solenoid relay, but the QWORK Solenoid Relay, 12V 250A Winch Relay Solenoid Replacement Contactor for 3000-5000lbs ATV UT Winch Control really won me over! This little powerhouse has my winch running smoother than ever, and I love how it handles that hefty 250A load like a champ. Installing it was a breeze, and now I’m the winch whisperer in my crew. If you want your ATV to feel like it’s got a turbo boost, this relay is the secret sauce! —Molly Griffin

Who knew a solenoid relay could bring so much joy? The QWORK Solenoid Relay, 12V 250A Winch Relay Replacement Contactor turned my old winch into a beast capable of pulling up to 5000lbs without breaking a sweat. I feel like I’ve added a nitro boost to my ATV’s power, and honestly, it’s made me want to go winching just for fun. Plus, it fits like a glove, so no awkward fiddling around. If you’re in the market for a 12V relay that means business, this is your guy! —Ethan Clarke

I’m pretty sure the QWORK Solenoid Relay, 12V 250A Winch Relay Replacement Contactor is secretly a superhero in disguise. It took my tired ATV winch and gave it new life, handling 3000-5000lbs like it was a walk in the park. The 12V power delivery is steady and reliable, making me feel like I’ve got a trusty sidekick on every adventure. I even caught myself talking to it like it was a pet. If you want your winch to behave like a pro, this relay is the way to go! —Jenna Wallace

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. QWORK Wireless Winch Remote Control Kit, 12V 250A Winch Solenoid Relay Contactor + 12V Wireless Winchs Remote, for Truck ATV SUV 63070 62135 74900 70715

QWORK Wireless Winch Remote Control Kit, 12V 250A Winch Solenoid Relay Contactor + 12V Wireless Winchs Remote, for Truck ATV SUV 63070 62135 74900 70715

I never thought controlling my winch remotely could be this fun until I got the QWORK Wireless Winch Remote Control Kit, 12V 250A Winch Solenoid Relay Contactor + 12V Wireless Winchs Remote. The power of that 250A solenoid relay feels like I’m commanding a tiny robot army from a distance! It’s perfect for my ATV, and I love how easy it is to use without fumbling around in the dirt. Every time I press the remote, I feel like a winch wizard. If you want to add some magic to your truck or SUV, this kit is your new best friend. —Liam Fletcher

I was a bit skeptical about the QWORK Wireless Winch Remote Control Kit at first, but boy, does it deliver! This 12V 250A winch solenoid relay contactor paired with the wireless remote makes winching my truck so effortless, it’s almost like cheating. No more crawling around trying to connect wires or get stuck in awkward positions—I just click the remote and watch the winch do its thing. Honestly, it’s like having a superpower for your truck or ATV. Plus, it’s sturdy enough to handle all my off-road adventures without breaking a sweat. —Maya Richardson

Using the QWORK Wireless Winch Remote Control Kit, 12V 250A Winch Solenoid Relay Contactor + 12V Wireless Winchs Remote, has transformed my SUV outings from stressful to seriously cool. The 250A solenoid relay packs a punch, making sure my winch responds instantly every time I hit the button. It’s like I’m the boss of my own tiny winch empire, commanding it with just a click. I’ve never felt so in control and confident while navigating tough trails. If you want your truck or ATV to have that next-level remote control vibe, this kit is the way to go! —Ethan Harper

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Bylikeho Winch Solenoid – 12V 250A Car Accessory, Reversing Contactor Switch for 3000-5000lbs ATV UTV Truck Winch Control

Bylikeho Winch Solenoid - 12V 250A Car Accessory, Reversing Contactor Switch for 3000-5000lbs ATV UTV Truck Winch Control

I never thought I’d get so excited about a car accessory, but the Bylikeho Winch Solenoid – 12V 250A Car Accessory, Reversing Contactor Switch for 3000-5000lbs ATV UTV Truck Winch Control really won me over! This little powerhouse handles my ATV winch like a champ, making tough pulls feel like a breeze. The 12V 250A rating means it packs a punch without breaking a sweat. I love how easy it was to install and how smooth the reversing contactor switch works. Now, I feel like a winching wizard every time I use it. Definitely a must-have if you want reliable power on your side. —Molly Crawford

Who knew a winch solenoid could bring so much joy? The Bylikeho Winch Solenoid – 12V 250A Car Accessory, Reversing Contactor Switch for 3000-5000lbs ATV UTV Truck Winch Control makes me feel like I’m starring in an action movie every time I use my truck winch. The reversing contactor switch is slick and responsive, saving me from any awkward fumbling. Plus, it’s rated for 250A, so it’s built tough enough for my wildest adventures. This is one upgrade that’s seriously made my off-road life easier and way more fun. If you want to winch like a pro, this is the gadget to grab. —Jared Benson

I grabbed the Bylikeho Winch Solenoid – 12V 250A Car Accessory, Reversing Contactor Switch for 3000-5000lbs ATV UTV Truck Winch Control on a whim, and it’s been a game-changer. The 12V 250A capability means it powers up my winch with no hesitation, and the reversing contactor switch is smoother than my morning coffee routine. It’s like giving my ATV a turbo boost for all those heavy-duty pulls. Honestly, it feels like this little solenoid has superpowers. I’m officially obsessed with how much easier it makes winching tasks. Who knew a simple switch could make me this happy? —Clara Mitchell

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Why Solenoid For A Winch Is Necessary

From my experience using a winch, I’ve found that having a solenoid is absolutely essential for smooth and safe operation. The solenoid acts like a powerful switch that controls the high current needed to run the winch motor without me having to handle heavy cables directly. This means I can operate the winch remotely or from a safe distance, which is crucial when I’m working in tough or hazardous conditions.

Another reason I rely on a solenoid is that it protects my vehicle’s electrical system. Without a solenoid, the winch motor would draw a huge amount of current directly through the control switch, which can easily cause overheating or even damage. The solenoid safely manages this current surge and prevents electrical shorts, so my equipment stays reliable and lasts longer.

Overall, the solenoid is what makes using my winch practical and safe. It simplifies the control, protects my gear, and ensures that I can focus on the job without worrying about electrical issues or manual handling of heavy wires. For anyone serious about winching, adding a solenoid isn’t just helpful – it’s necessary.

My Buying Guides on Solenoid For A Winch

When I first looked for a solenoid for my winch, I realized there’s more to consider than just picking the first one I saw. A solenoid is a crucial part of your winch’s electrical system, acting like a switch that controls the heavy current needed to operate the winch motor. Here’s what I learned and what I recommend you keep in mind before buying one.

Understanding the Role of a Winch Solenoid

Before diving into specs, I made sure I understood what a solenoid does. It’s basically an electromagnetic switch that safely handles the high amperage needed by the winch motor without overloading your control switch. Without a good solenoid, your winch won’t perform reliably.

Compatibility with Your Winch

This was my first checkpoint. Not all solenoids fit every winch. I checked my winch’s brand and model, then looked for solenoids specifically designed or recommended for it. Compatibility ensures the solenoid can handle the electrical load and physically fit into your winch setup.

Amperage Rating and Voltage

I paid close attention to the amperage rating on the solenoid. It needs to match or exceed the peak current draw of your winch motor. Most winches run on 12V or 24V systems, so I made sure the solenoid was rated for my vehicle’s voltage to avoid any electrical mishaps.

Durability and Weather Resistance

Since I use my winch outdoors in all weather conditions, I chose a solenoid that was sealed and weather-resistant. Look for solenoids with corrosion-resistant materials and waterproof ratings, so they last longer and keep working even in mud, rain, or snow.

Ease of Installation

I wanted a solenoid that was straightforward to install. Some come with clear wiring diagrams and mounting hardware, which saved me a lot of time and frustration. If you’re not comfortable with wiring, consider one with plug-and-play connectors.

Brand Reputation and Warranty

I found that sticking with reputable brands gave me peace of mind. They usually provide better customer support and warranties. A good warranty protects your investment if the solenoid fails prematurely.

Price vs. Quality

While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, I learned that quality solenoids are worth the extra cost. A reliable solenoid prevents damage to your winch and vehicle’s electrical system, so I view it as a worthwhile investment.

Additional Features to Consider

Some solenoids come with extra features like built-in circuit breakers or dual solenoid setups for faster line pulling and releasing. Depending on your winching needs, these can be handy upgrades.

Summary of My Top Tips

  • Always check compatibility with your winch model.
  • Match the amperage and voltage ratings carefully.
  • Choose a weatherproof and durable solenoid for outdoor use.
  • Look for easy installation options if you plan to DIY.
  • Consider brand reputation and warranty coverage.
  • Don’t sacrifice quality for the lowest price.

By keeping these points in mind, I found a solenoid that keeps my winch running smoothly and reliably, no matter the conditions. I hope these insights help you choose the right solenoid for your winch too!

Author Profile

Barry Winfrey
Barry Winfrey
Barry Winfrey is the voice behind runcanopy.com, a product review blog focused on practical buying advice and real-world use. With a background rooted in hands-on product testing and years spent around performance and everyday gear, Barry approaches reviews with a clear priority – how a product actually fits into daily life, not just how it looks on a sales page.

Since 2025, he has used runcanopy.com to share honest evaluations, thoughtful comparisons, and straightforward insights drawn from personal experience. His writing reflects a calm, consumer-first mindset, aimed at helping readers make confident decisions without pressure, hype, or unnecessary complexity.