clutch start switch<\/a> on manual transmissions works as the neutral safety switch. It prevents the vehicle from starting unless the clutch is depressed, disconnecting its transmission from the engine.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThis device prevents various occasions that can endanger your life, including;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- Preventing an occasion where the vehicle starts and immediately moves forward unexpectedly. This scenario can happen if the car is in drive gear.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Preventing a scenario where the vehicle moves backward instantly after starting. If a car starts when the gear is in reverse, it often jerks backward.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- The safety switch also prevents occasions when kids may start the car while alone, and it immediately moves.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
How Does a Bad Neutral Safety Switch Cause Shifting Problems?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nA bad neutral safety switch can indirectly cause transmission issues in various ways.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- It can prevent the vehicle from starting, and without the engine running, there is no rotation input.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Also, a faulty neutral safety switch may cause issues when switching to various gears. For instance, when shifting from reverse to drive or vice versa, passing through neutral.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A faulty neutral can also cause problems when shifting from a stop. The car can experience a lug when shifting and sometimes stall shortly after shifting.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Neutral Safety Switch Symptoms<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nIt’s necessary to confirm that the neutral safety switch is the cause of shifting problems. This is because other parts may be the cause, and repairing this part won’t solve the problem. Following are various symptoms of a failing neutral safety switch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
1. Starting Problems<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nOne of the symptoms of a bad neutral safety switch is the vehicle failing to start even when on neutral or packed. Sometimes the driver must jiggle the shifter so the car can start. However, ensure other parts, like a faulty battery or starter, are not the cause.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
2. Starting in Other Gears<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nWhen your vehicle can start in other gears, the neutral safety has a problem. The engine should start on neutral or park gears, but not others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
3. Starting When Only on One Safe Gear but Not Both<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nSometimes, the car may start only on neutral or park but not both. This scenario is among the early signs the neutral safety gear is failing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Solutions to Neutral Safety Switch Problems<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nSolving the neutral safety switch is not always easy and is often best done by professionals. The main reason why you may need a mechanic is because of its position, which depending on the car, may be hard to access.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The replacement can cost between $100 and $350, depending on the car type and the repair shop. However, you can do the replacement by first locating where this switch is, using your user’s manual. Afterward, follow the steps below;<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Step 1: <\/strong>Switch off the engine and set the transmission to neutral.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Step 2<\/strong>: Disconnect the battery, beginning with the neutral terminal.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Step 3: <\/strong>Raise and support the vehicle.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Step 4: <\/strong>Disconnect the connectors to the neutral safety switch.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Step 5: <\/strong>Using a compatible socket and a ratchet, unscrew the switch. In some cars, you may have to remove the front drive shaft first.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Step 6: <\/strong>Remove the neutral safety switch and replace it with a new one.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Step 7: <\/strong>Screw the new switch in.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Step 8: <\/strong>Replace the connectors.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Step 9: <\/strong>If you had to remove the front drive shaft, put it back.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Step 10: <\/strong>Lower the car and reconnect the battery.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Step 11: <\/strong>Test the new neutral safety switch.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Other Causes of Shifting Problems<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nAs mentioned above, the neutral safety switch may not be the problem. If this is your case, various things may be the cause. They include;<\/p>\n\n\n