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View Full Version : Have I found the neutral safety switch?


halbitton
07-10-2011, 09:23 PM
Hi
I've pulled the shifter boot and trim from the console of my '99 e38, and have identified what I think is the neutral safety switch on the right side of the shifter assy. Essentially it's looks to be a solenoid that extends a plunger into the shifter mechanism. The plunger is only allowed to extend if the shifter is Park or Neutral. Is this the neutral safety switch?

When I turn the key to start the car (shifter in Park), the plunger will sometimes extend for a split second, or sometimes not at all. The car does not start. Turning the key very slowly on will usually make the plunger extend for just a split second.
If this is indeed the neutral safety switch, and the plunger being allowed to extend is what tells the system the car is in neutral or park, shouldn't the plunger remain out untill the engine starts? Am I onto the no starting problem here?
Any help appreciated,
thanks, hal
tekazgtr1984
07-10-2011, 09:30 PM
I had issues with the neutral safety switch on my E38. My mechanic showed it to me when he hoisted the car, and it looked like this:

http://c1552172.r72.cf0.rackcdn.com/19133_x600.jpg
LasVegasE38
07-10-2011, 10:38 PM
The little plunger under the boot is the lock pin that moves when you hit the brake pedal isn't it?
tekazgtr1984
07-10-2011, 10:42 PM
The little plunger under the boot is the lock pin that moves when you hit the brake pedal isn't it?

I think you're right, it's the shift lock.
jmiseo2008
07-11-2011, 09:16 AM
I believe the NSS is located on the driver side of the transmission.
Xephius
07-11-2011, 10:55 AM
Hi again Hal,

Same thing as I posted in your other thread. Your transmission is exhibiting the same problem I am, but I may/may not be having other problems as well. I rebuilt the position sensor yesterday and have pics on how to do it. I will be posting up a how-to shortly (Give or take a couple hours)

There is a high probability that the switch is the problem. Did this problem happen or get worse after driving in the rain?

John
halbitton
07-11-2011, 12:30 PM
Hi again John,
The car suddenly wouldn't start the other day. Before that no hint of a problem.
Have not driven in rain recently.
Thanks, hal
Edwin NL
07-12-2011, 03:02 AM
See John's post!