2004 Kia Optima replacing neutral safety switch

Tiny
DENISESIMS
  • MEMBER
  • 2004 KIA OPTIMA
  • 4 CYL
  • FWD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 52,000 MILES
I am needing to know how do you change a neutral safety switch on this car.
Tuesday, June 22nd, 2010 AT 10:58 AM

1 Reply

Tiny
BLUELIGHTNIN6
  • MECHANIC
  • 16,542 POSTS
The switch is on the top of the transmission, under the gearshift lever. Remove the gearshift cable end from the transmission gearshift lever by prying the ball end up. It is a snap down connector and a screwdriver makes it easy to lift up.

Disconnect the electrical connector from the switch by pushing on the tab and pulling the plug straight out. Remove the two bolts securing the switch to the top side of the transmission. Prior to lifting the switch off, pay attention to the location of the bolt within the slot. The switch has a flat surface in the center hole that slides over the gearshift lever shaft. The flat surface on the shaft must be aligned with the flat surface on the switch ring. This is what keeps the transmission shift lever from spinning inside the switch.

Lift the switch up and off of the transmission. Install the new switch with the same orientation. Install the bolts and position the switch in close proximity to where it came from, relative to the adjusting slots. Tighten the bolts, leaving them loose enough for the switch to be moved. Connect the electrical connector and re-install the gear shift linkage. Have the helper hold the ignition switch in the start position while the neutral safety switch is rotated until the starter engages. Have the helper release the ignition. Tighten the securing bolts in the switch and try starting the vehicle in park and neutral. If it is difficult to turn the key far enough to activate the starter, re-adjust the switch.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
+1
Tuesday, June 22nd, 2010 AT 7:20 PM

Please login or register to post a reply.

Sponsored links