Turn key no sound

Tiny
JEFFREY ALAN MARINELL
  • MEMBER
  • 2006 MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER
  • 2.4L
  • 4 CYL
  • AWD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 146,165 MILES
I try to start my car but nothing happens no sound no clicking no nothing!
I think it is the neutral lockout switch! I want to find out where it is located on my car so I can clean it.

When I shake the gear lever it will sometimes start but not always.
Do I have to replace the lock out switch or can I just clean it?

Jeffrey Marinell
Sunday, April 2nd, 2017 AT 12:14 PM

4 Replies

Tiny
CARADIODOC
  • MECHANIC
  • 33,916 POSTS
This is a transmission range switch, and is most likely a sealed assembly. Some cars use more troublesome transmission range sensors. I have heard of people cleaning those on Jeeps, but those too can be sealed assemblies. The better solution is to replace a defective unit.

Given your observation that moving the shifter can affect the symptom, do not overlook a loose shifter cable adjusting nut at the transmission end of the cable.
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Sunday, April 2nd, 2017 AT 7:28 PM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 48,363 POSTS
Hello,

There is no lock out switch. It sounds more like you have a bad connection at the battery and when you move the gear shifter it gives a small vibration that helps the connection. When you say it makes no noise you mean no lights on no nothing?

Please let us know what happens.

Best, Ken
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Monday, April 3rd, 2017 AT 7:53 PM
Tiny
JEFFREY ALAN MARINELL
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Ken, all the lights come on the warning bells the radio, and head lights. But when I turn the key there is no sound of cranking of the starter!
Jeffrey
PS, when I shake the gear shifter it will start, but I have to do it two or three times sometimes more sometimes less.
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-1
Tuesday, April 4th, 2017 AT 7:56 AM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 48,363 POSTS
Yep, a classic starter motor going out or the neutral safety switch shorting. Here are two guides to help you check out the problem and get it fixed.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-a-starter-motor

and

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-a-neutral-safety-switch-works

Please run some tests and get back to us so we can continue helping you.

Best, Ken
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Tuesday, April 4th, 2017 AT 11:02 AM

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