1996 Saturn SL2 starting problems

EVEST166

MEMBER
1996 SATURN SL2

Electrical problem
1996 Saturn SL2 4 cyl Front Wheel Drive 115000 miles

how do I test the neutral safety switch with a multi meter and where is it located? I suspect that this is my problem because this car acts the same in park or drive when trying to start it. Everything works electrictally when I turn the key and I hear what I think is the fuel pump but nothing to the starter. No clicking or hum. This is an intermittent problem that was happening once a month but is now a couple times a week. Had to have it towed once and the shop kept it for three days and couldn't duplicate the problem.

2 Replies

SATURNTECH9

MECHANIC
30,870 POSTS

Ur selector switch ur looking to test is below ur master cyclinder mounted to ur transmission it has three connectors going to it the two connectors that are plugged in sideways the top one with the two big wires to it is ur starter wires one feeds power from ur ignition switch into the selector switch and when ur in park the two wires are connected and feeds power thru the other wire to ur starter only problem is u have to test it during a no start condition u could unplug the connector when the car is in park and see if u get less then 2 ohms between the two terminals on the selector switch. An easier way to test it would be with a test light and in park trying to start it both wires should have power comming out of them with the connector plugged in. I really doubt it's the selector switch have really only replaced them for setting a code 49 selector switch invaild and transmission shifting concerns not starting concerns. It's more likely the battery, cables loose or corroded or the starter I have seen starters go bad and make no sound when u turn the key and not all the time ethier. So I would check the battery and cables to elminate those as possiblitys. Also checking the selector with a test light will tell u if the ignition switch is sending power to the selector and starter area so u can narrow it down more to the starter or something else. Let me know what u find.