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 engine starting system
before the neutral safety switch. With this type of vehicle, if the vehicle is left in a drive gear and
the remote engine starting system is activated, the vehicle will move and may cause damage to
persons or property.
According to available information, vehicles known to be manufactured this way are most General
Motors trucks, sport utility vehicles and column shifting passenger vehicles. Available information also
indicates that pre-1996 Dodge Dakota pickups with 2.5 liter motors are also manufactured this way.
GM vehicles that have the neutral safety switch built into the column shifter can usually be
identified by a purple starter wire. Typically, vehicles that use an outboard mechanical switch use a
yellow wire from the ignition switch to the mechanical switch and a purple wire from the
mechanical switch to the starter itself. Remember, this is only a rule of thumb and is not intended
as a substitute for proper testing. We suggest the following procedure to test for vehicles manufac-
tured in this way.
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 engine starting 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 engine starting system.
8. If the starter engages, immediately depress the brake to shut the remote engine starting system
down. If the starter does not engage, no additional safety system is required.
IMPORTANT!
You must complete the remote engine starting system installation before
doing the following test. Ensure that the remote engine starting system is functioning
normally. This includes connecting to the brake as a shut-down.
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