Engine Starting Issue While Auto Transmission is in the "Park" Position

**SDphotoman** · 06-14-2009, 04:34 PM

I have an issue with my capability to start my engine at times. Most of the time I turn the ignition key and my engine turns over without a problem. On the other hand, there are times (5 to 10 times a week) I have to slightly pull back on the shift lever of my automatic transmission while the shift lever is in the "PARK" position in order to allow the engine to turn over and start?

I DO NOT have to take the transmission lever stick out of the "PARK" position; I simply grab a hold of the shift lever and pull the stick back very slightly. Approximately a 1/4" to 1/2” and afterwards the engine will then turn over and start. I have been experiencing this issue since last October and the problem is now becoming more frequent and persistent.

This issue can occur on a flat and level surface or a sloped and inclined surface. Your help is greatly appreciated.

P.S. My "REVERSE" lights do not work either.

papaj · 06-14-2009, 04:41 PM

It's the switch that prevents engine starts unless the tranny is in Park or Neutral and the same switch runs the backup lights.

CJ Chet · 06-14-2009, 04:42 PM

Check your "neutral safety switch". Sounds like it needs tweaking.

**SDphotoman** · 06-14-2009, 04:45 PM

When you say the "SWITCH" are you referring to the neutral switch?

**SDphotoman** · 06-14-2009, 04:47 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CJ Chet

Check your "neutral safety switch". Sounds like it needs tweaking.

How do you tweak the neutral switch?

ctm · 06-14-2009, 06:19 PM

I'm going to ask a basic question: what vehicle are you asking the question about?

garbageman · 06-14-2009, 09:14 PM

Switch on top of column under dash. Swap it out. Still available at your local FLAPS.

**JeepHammer** · 06-15-2009, 12:18 AM

Nope, not the ignition switch,

It's the Neutral Safety Switch & reverse light switch on the side of your automatic transmission...

Since you only have to 'Jiggle' the shifter selector to get things to work,
I would assume,
1. The switch has failed, and needs replacment that is properly installed.
2. Your linkage is worn and not positioning the 'Sector Shaft' in the correct location.
3. Your internal transmission linkage is out of adjustment.

And I would approach the problem in that order.
1. Switch is cheap and easy to install.
2. Linkage has bushing that wear out and cause problems. Look into that without opening the transmission.
3. Means you have to open the transmission, and do some internal adjustments that can take specialty tools to do.

**SDphotoman** · 09-28-2009, 05:04 PM

Thanks for all of the input and help from everybody. I replaced the neutral safety switch (NSS) and all is back to good working order. The only other additional thing that I had to do was to replace one of my reverse backup light bulbs because it was burnt out.