Inhibitor Switch: Inspection

2022 Subaru Impreza Base, 4D Sedan, Automatic CVT TransSECTION Inspection

When the driving condition or starter motor operation is improper, first check the shift linkage for improper operation. If the shift linkage is functioning properly, check the inhibitor switch.

  1. Disconnect the ground terminal from battery sensor. Ref. to REPAIR CONTENTS>REPAIR CONTENTS>NOTE>BATTERY .
  2. Remove the clip from the air intake boot, and loosen the clamp.
    G11252776Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  3. Remove the air intake boot, and place it aside so that it does not interfere with the work.
    NOTE:

    Be careful not to pull out the PCV hose. 

    G11252777Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  4. Remove the transmission radio ground terminal.
    G11255509Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  5. Disconnect the transmission harness connector.
    G11255510Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  6. Remove the transmission case cover (small).
    G11255523Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  7. Move the lock lever in the arrow direction while pressing the lock button, and disconnect the connector.
    G13936582Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  8. Set the ST between the TCM and transmission harness. Ref. to TRANSMISSION (DIAGNOSTICS) (IMPREZA MODEL)>GENERAL DESCRIPTION>CAUTION .

    Preparation tool:  ST: CHECK BOARD (18460AA040)

  9. Check for continuity in inhibitor switch circuit by shifting the select lever in "P", "R", "N" and "D" respectively.
    NOTE:
    • Check that there is no continuity in the starter circuit when the select lever is in the "R" and "D" ranges. 
    • When inhibitor switch is normal, check there is no poor contact in vehicle side connector and no open circuit in harness. 
      Range Terminal No. Standard
    Signal sent to TCM P 38 - 42 Less than 1 Ω
    R 37 - 42
    N 36 - 42
    D 35 - 42
    G13936583Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
      Range Terminal No. Standard
    Starter signal P/N 1 - 5 Less than 1 Ω
    Back-up light circuit R 22 - 26
    G11255604Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  10. Check that there is continuity at equal points when the select lever is moved 1.5° in both directions from the "N" range.

    If there is continuity in only one direction or in other points, adjust the inhibitor switch. Ref. to CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE TRANSMISSION (TR580 IMPREZA)>INHIBITOR SWITCH>ADJUSTMENT .

    G13936585Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  11. Repeat the above inspection in other gear ranges. If there is fault, adjust the inhibitor switch and select cable. Ref. to CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE TRANSMISSION (TR580 IMPREZA)>INHIBITOR SWITCH>ADJUSTMENT . Ref. to CONTROL SYSTEMS>SELECT CABLE>ADJUSTMENT .
RENDER: 1.0x

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.