Won't start unless trans is in Neutral?

[LabradorBoy]

Hello, my sister is having a problem with her 2001 Protege LX 2.0 w/auto transmission where the car won't start unless the transmission is placed in neutral on the automatic selector.

I am thinking that there is a switch or indicator somewhere in the electrical system of the car that should be engaged when the gear selector is in park, but has now failed and does not send a signal in that position any longer.

Can anybody offer some insight as to how I can solve this problem and allow her to start her car in "Park" again?

[mothra]

(snipped)
Can anybody offer some insight as to how I can solve this problem and allow her to start her car in "Park" again?

Try the neutral safety switch

http://www.2carpros.com/how_does_it_work/how_a_neutral_safety_switch_works.htm

Hope this helps

[LabradorBoy]

Can anybody tell me where this is mounted? Under the automatic shifter console maybe?

[LabradorBoy]

I have been looking at part diagrams around the shifter mechanism and I'm not having much luck. Can somebody please tell me where the neutral safety switch is located on the BJ Protege?

[Ace]

I think It may actually be on the transmission case.

[LabradorBoy]

Got it!

Section 05-17 of the FSM, page 21. It is mounted on the front side of the transmission case, just above the transmission base pan seam.

Thanks, now to find a good used one!

[323 mazda]

here its a pic for future reference.