Shift interlock solenoid bypass

Shift interlock solenoid issues

What is a shift interlock solenoid?

A shift interlock is a safety device that prevents you

Shift interlock solenoid

from starting your engine unless your foot is on the brake pedal. It works in conjunction with the neutral safety switch. When you turn the key to start the engine, the computer checks whether the vehicle is in park or neutral or, in a manual transmission vehicle; whether your clutch is fully depressed. If either of those conditions are met, the computer then checks to see if you’ve depressed the brake pedal. It can detect this through the brake pedal switch.

If the brake pedal is depressed, either the computer or the brake pedal switch will provide ground to the shift interlock solenoid. The solenoid then actuates and move a pin or rod out of the way, allowing the key to turn and start the vehicle. The shift interlock solenoid can block the lock cylinder, the ignition switch or the neutral safety switch, depending on the system design.

What are the symptoms of a bad shift interlock solenoid?

You can’t start the engine, even with your foot on the brake.

How do you bypass the shift interlock solenoid?

All vehicles equipped with a shift interlock solenoid have a bypass mode that’s described int he owners manual. In most cases, you remove a plastic plug and insert a key or screwdriver to move the plunger manually.

©, 2021 Rick Muscoplat