Genuine Mazda MX-5 Miata Neutral Safety Switch

Mazda MX-5 Miata Neutral Safety Switch Parts and Q&A

• Neutral Safety Switch
  SJ01-19-444
  Q:

  How to check and adjust the Neutral Safety Switch on Mazda MX-5 Miata?

  A:

  Verify the clutch pedal's setting. Check that the engine won't start when the clutch pedal is released, and will start when you fully depress the pedal. If it does not operate as intended, adjust or replace the clutch switch as necessary. Find the Neutral Safety Switch on the clutch pedal assembly and disconnect the electrical connector. Attach an ohmmeter across the two switch terminals. When the switch is On (pedal is depressed), the switch should show continuity. When the switch is Off (pedal is released), the switch should not show continuity. Replace the switch if it fails either test. As for models from 2005 and earlier, remove the switch by unplugging the electrical connector and loosening the lock nuts, then install new switch in reverse order. Change the height of the pedal and, once again, check that the engine does not start when the clutch pedal is released, and does start when depressed. For the 2006 and later models, first disconnect the electrical connector from the switch. Then Unlock the switch from the mounting bracket by rotating counter clockwise and pulling it out. Finally, install the new Neutral Safety Switch in reverse order.
• Neutral Safety Switch
  P601-17-640
  Q:

  What are the differences between the inhibitor switch and the Neutral Safety Switch on Mazda MX-5 Miata?

  A:

  On vehicles made in 1994 and before, this switch is called the inhibitor switch or Neutral start switch. It stops the engine from starting when the transmission is in gear. On vehicles made in 1995 and after, this switch is called the Transmission Range (TR) switch. This is also an inhibitor switch, but it also sends the gear of the transmission to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) or Transmission Control Module (TCM). Mazda has the two switches referenced as the transmission position switch, with inhibitor switch for 1994 and earlier and TR switch for 1995 and later, both located on the sideways of the transmission where the shift linkage connects to the transmission. To test the switch, the engine should start only in Park or Neutral and the backup lights should activate only in REVERSE. If the switch fails, raise the vehicle securely and check for continuity with an ohmmeter. Adjust or replace the switch as necessary. For models from 1994 and earlier, continuity should exist between certain terminals in the various shift positions, and the adjustment will consist of loosening its bolts and aligning the switch with a pin. For models from 1995 to 2005, a similar continuity check and adjustment should be done at specified terminals on each gear. Continuity checks and adjustments are essentially the same as those by earlier models in 2006 and later. This means disconnection of the battery. Moreover, removal of one or more components to have access. The replacement procedure involves disconnecting electrical connectors, removing the switch, and installing and adjusting it to confirm correct operation.