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©
2002
Directed Electronics, Inc.
Neutral Safety Switch Interface
Some vehicles combine the column shift mechanism and the mechanical neutral safety switch into
one mechanical part. In these vehicles, it is impossible to interface the remote start system before
the neutral safety switch. With this type of vehicle, if the vehicle is left in a drive gear and the remote
start system is activated, the vehicle will move and may cause damage to persons or property. The
following test must be performed before the vehicle is released to the customer.
NOTE:
You must complete the remote start system installation before doing the following test.
Ensure that the remote start system is functioning normally. This includes connecting to the brake
as a shut-down.
Testing the Neutral Safety Switch
1. Make sure there is adequate clearance to the front and rear of the vehicle because it may move
slightly.
2. Make sure the hood is closed and there are no remote start shut-downs active.
3. Set the emergency brake.
4. Turn the key to the "run" position, this will release the shifter.
5. Place the car in drive (D).
6. Place your foot directly over the brake pedal, but do not depress it. Be ready to step on the brake
if the starter engages.
7. Activate the remote start system.
8. If the starter engages, immediately depress the brake to shut the remote start system down. If
the starter does not engage, no additional safety system is required.
If the starter engages while testing, refer to DirectFax Document 1008 (Neutral Safety Update). It is
available to authorized dealers only from the technical resources listed at the beginning of this manual.
IMPORTANT! Once the interface is complete, attempt to remote start the vehicle with
the door closed and the key in the ignition. The vehicle should not start. If it does,
recheck the connections.
IMPORTANT! Always perform the Vehicle Safety Check section of this guide to verify
that the vehicle cannot be started in ANY drive gear and that the override switch is
functioning properly.