Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Circuit Description
Transmission range sensor is also referred to as park/neutral position switch. The park/neutral position switch detects the shift lever position and sends signals to the ECM. The ECM receives signals (P, R, N, D, 4, 3, 2 and L) from the park/neutral position switch. When the signal is not sent to the ECM from the park/neutral position switch, the ECM judges that the shift lever is in "D" position. When the shift lever is in the 4 position (with transmission control switch for "D" and "4" pressed), "4" in the shift position indicator light will come on and when the shift lever is in the "D" position (with transmission control switch for "D" and "4" released), "D" in the shift position indicator light will come on. When the shift lever is in the "L" position (with transmission control switch for "2v and "L" pressed), "L" in the shift position indicator light will come on and when the shift lever is in the "2" position (with transmission control switch for "2" and "L" released), "2" in the shift position indicator light will come on. DTC is set when all switches are OFF simultaneously for P, R, N, D, 3 and 2 positions, or when 2 or more switches are ON simultaneously for P, R, N, (D 4), 3 and (2 L) positions. Possible causes are:
- Open or short in park/neutral position switch circuit.
- Faulty park/neutral position switch.
- Faulty ECM.
NO RELATED
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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.