How to Get Clearance for Elevator in Borderlands 4

By Daniel Hidalgo | 2025-09-14 11:59:30
The opening hours of Borderlands 4 are designed to throw you headfirst into the chaos, humor, and loot-driven action the series is famous for. One of the first significant hurdles many Vault Hunters face is during the "Recruitment Drive" mission. After heroically claiming the broadcast tower as your first safehouse, you'll hit a familiar wall: a stubborn elevator that refuses to work without proper authorization.
If you're staring at a non-functional control panel with a hyperactive Claptrap chirping in your ear, you're not alone. This guide will cut through the confusion and show you exactly how to secure that all-important elevator clearance and get your adventure on Kairos back on track.

Why You Need the Elevator Clearance


This elevator isn't just a minor obstacle; it's the critical path forward. Activating it is the primary objective of this segment of the "Recruitment Drive" quest and serves as your gateway to the wider, more dangerous, and loot-filled regions of the planet Kairos. Without it, your progress is completely blocked.

Step-by-Step: Finding the Hidden Keycard


The game brilliantly (or frustratingly) doesn't mark the solution with a giant waypoint. Instead, it encourages a bit of old-school exploration. Forget scouring the entire tower; the answer is lying right in front of you.
  • Position Yourself: Stand directly in front of the elevator's control panel, facing it as if you're about to press the button.
  • Turn Around: Now, do a 180-degree turn. Your character should now be facing away from the elevator doors.
  • Spot the Clue: Look straight ahead on the ground. You will see the corpse of a defeated Ripper bandit.
  • Claim Your Prize: Approach the body. On its neck, you will spot a distinctive, glowing High-Frequency Bolt. This isn't just junk loot; this is your elevator clearance.
  • Interact: Move close until the "Take" prompt appears. Secure the bolt for your inventory.

  • Mission Accomplished: Using the Clearance


    With the High-Frequency Bolt now in your possession, your job is almostdone. Simply return to the elevator control panel and interact with itagain. This time, the system will recognize your clearance, the doorswill open, and you'll be able to ride it down to the next area.


    As you descend, enjoy a moment of victory (and probably some classicClaptrap commentary), knowing you've successfully solved one of Kairos's first puzzles. The path to greater challenges and even better loot isnow open. Happy hunting, Vault Hunter!

    Borderlands 4 Elevator Clearance FAQ


    Q: I can't find the body! Where exactly is it?

    A: It's very close. From the elevator, turn around and look at the ground. The dead Ripper is literally just a few steps away, often easy to missamidst the other clutter and combat effects.


    Q: Is the High-Frequency Bolt used for anything else?

    A: Primarily, it's a key item for this quest. Once used on the elevator,it serves its purpose, though it may be sold for a minimal amount ofcash afterward if it remains in your inventory.


    Q: What happens if I sold the bolt by accident?

    A: Key quest items in Borderlands games typically cannot be sold ordropped to prevent this exact issue. It should be safe in your inventory until you use it. If it's gone, checking a vendor's "Buy-Back" tab isyour first step.

    Platform(s): PlayStation 5 PS5, Microsoft Windows PC, Nintendo Switch 2, Xbox Series X/S
    Genre(s): First-person shooter, action role-playing
    Developer(s): Gearbox Software
    Publisher(s): 2K
    Engine: Unreal Engine 5
    Release date: September 12, 2025
    Mode: Single-player, multiplayer
    Video preview



    Other Articles Related

    How to Get a Vehicle in Borderlands 4
    Learn how to unlockevery vehicle in Borderlands 4. Our guide covers finding Catch-A-Ridestations, vehicle types, upgrades, and customizations to dominatePandora and beyond.
    How to Get Aegon's Dream in Borderlands 4
    Unlock the secrets of Aegon's Dream in Borderlands 4. Our guide reveals thequest start location, step-by-step walkthrough, and powerful legendaryrewards for completing this epic mission.
    How to Complete Electroshock Therapy Quest in Borderlands 4
    Struggling with the Electroshock Therapy quest in Borderlands 4?Our guide covers how to find the conductor coils, power the transformer, and defeat the boss for epic loot.
    What Are Lost Capsules in Borderlands 4
    Uncover the mystery of Lost Capsules in Borderlands 4. Learn whatthese hidden caches are, where to find them, and the legendary loot they contain for daring Vault Hunters.
    How to Respec Skills & Specializations in Borderlands 4
    Discover how to respec skills and specializations in Borderlands 4.Unlock new strategies and enhance your gameplay with our guide.
    How to Destroy the Jamming Device & Save Quent in Borderlands 4
    Struggling with the jamming device in Borderlands 4? Our guideshows you exactly how to destroy it and save the fan-favorite character, Quent. Get the step-by-step walkthrough here.
    All Difficulty Settings in Borderlands 4
    Explore Borderlands 4's difficulty settings and understand how theyaffect your gaming experience. Choose the right level for thrilling  
    How to Mute Claptrap in Borderlands 4
    Unlock the coveted Kai Cenat skins in Fortnite with our guide.Explore strategies and tips to enhance your character's look andgameplay 
    All Fadefields Vault Symbols in Borderlands 4
    Unlock every secret. This guide reveals all Fadefields Vault Symbol locationsin Borderlands 4 for dedicated vault hunters seeking 100% completion.
    How to Get Clearance for the Elevator in Borderlands 4
    Navigate the challenges of Borderlands 4 with our guide on obtainingelevator clearance. Elevate your gameplay and explore new heights!
    Where to Find All Claptrap Mission in Borderlands 4
    Discover all Claptrap mission locations in Borderlands 4! Uncover hidden quests and enhance your gameplay with our guide.
    How to Fix NBA 2K26 build specialization not working
     Resolve NBA 2K26 build specialization issues effortlessly. Discover tips and solutions to fix your gameplay  
    All mods list for Borderlands 4
    the ultimate list of mods for Borderlands 4! Enhance your gameplay experience with our guide to all available mods.
    How to install mods in Borderlands 4
    Discover how to install mods for Borderlands 4 with our easy-to-follow guide. Enhance your gaming experience 
    CRED MINER Becomes Top Choice for XRP and DOGE Holders, Leading the Surge in Passive Income with Low Entry Barriers
    As volatility intensifies in major crypto assets such as XRP and DOGE, an increasing number of holders