Q: What is the purpose of the Neutral safety switch and how can it be diagnosed and repaired for different types of transmissions?
A: The Neutral safety switch prevents the engine from starting when the vehicle is in gear. It's activated by the clutch pedal in manual transmissions and the shift selector lever in automatic transmissions. The switch can be found on the clutch pedal or clutch master cylinder actuator shaft for manual transmissions, and on the driver's side of the transmission. To check the switch, begin by disconnecting the electrical connector and checking for voltage while holding the key in the START position. If no voltage is indicated, repair the harness and check the starter. If voltage is indicated, jump between pins and check for voltage at the starter relay S wire. If voltage is now indicated, replace and adjust the switch.