Changing the interrupter switch

2005 NISSAN ALTIMA
50,000 MILES • 2.5L • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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MIGUEL985
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I'm having trouble locating the ignition interrupter switch and need advice on changing it.
Jul 20, 2019 at 3:41 PM
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KASEKENNY
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 18,907 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Hi Miguel,

I assume you are referring to the park neutral switch. This is located close to the oil pan on auto transmissions. It is as simple as unplugging it and removing it. Once you locate it, you should not have to remove anything to change it.

Here is a drawing of the location.
Jul 21, 2019 at 4:25 PM
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MIGUEL985
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Thanks! Another question, when I turn the key to start the car it doesn't start, I only hear the relay clicking, any advice on what the problem is?
Jul 21, 2019 at 11:40 PM
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KASEKENNY
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 18,907 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
More than likely that clicking is the starter solenoid. If it does start it could as simple as a dead battery. If not then I would think it is a starter. The way to tell is to measure voltage at the starter while cranking. If you have battery voltage and it doesn’t turn over then I think it’s the starter.
Jul 22, 2019 at 6:11 AM
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MIGUEL985
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I have a brand new battery and a mechanic started it from under the hood so it's neither one of those. It's the relay that's clicking and I think it's just a ignition switch problem. Thanks tho!
Jul 23, 2019 at 12:47 PM
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KASEKENNY
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 18,907 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
So when you say he starts it from under the hood by jumping the starter, then yes. I agree sounds like an ignition switch.
Jul 23, 2019 at 6:49 PM
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