An anti-theft mechanism known as the neutral safety switch prevents the car from starting in any gear other than park or neutral. Thanks to the construction of this device, the engine can only be started when the transmission is in a safe position. If the neutral safety switch is broken it may be difficult to start the car or take the transmission out of park. These problems can be dangerous because if the transmission isn’t engaged correctly, the car may not start when it should or may suddenly roll over. To protect the safety of the car, it is important to have a professional fix a broken neutral safety switch.
Here are some common symptoms of a bad neutral safety switch.
Table of Contents
1. No Crank
Many times, due to failure of the neutral safety switch, the vehicle will not start at all. Shifting gears quickly while stationary can randomly reactivate a failed shifter.
2. Cranks At Idle But Not In Park
In many cases, a faulty neutral safety switch causes the vehicle to start in neutral but not park. If such a symptom occurs, it is most likely caused by a faulty neutral switch.
3. Crank In The Park Instead Of Idle
If the neutral safety switch is bad, the car will start in park but will not start in neutral. This is conclusive enough to justify replacing the neutral safety switch.
4. Crank In All Gears
Much less common than the above condition, the neutral safety switch may also fail in the “function” position, allowing the vehicle to crank regardless of transmission. Creates a potential hazard that must be replaced.
Final Words About Symptoms Of A Bad Neutral Safety Switch
If you see any of these signs, it is possible that your neutral safety switch is broken. You should check it and replace it if necessary. It’s important to fix a broken neutral safety switch as soon as possible because, if left unattended, it can damage the transmission and other drivetrain parts.