How to Replace Your Transmission Position Sensor? 7 Steps For Sensor Replacement
Most people with an automatic transmission vehicle won’t even give this component a second thought. Until it’s too late. It’s easily overlooked. The transmission position sensor, also known as the transmission position sensor switch or a transmission range sensor, is a crucial piece of the transmission and the safe operating of the vehicle. Because this electrical component is not part of regular vehicle maintenance, it’s not something you’d think of when considering vehicle care. But like all electrical components, the transmission position sensor can fail. Because the symptoms are similar to other vehicle issues, they can easily be missed or mistaken for something else.What is a transmission position sensor (switch)?
Automatic transmission vehicles are engineered to start only in park or neutral gears. The transmission position sensor was developed as a safety mechanism to prevent damage to property or people from vehicles starting in reverse or drive gears. In addition, the sensor will prevent the vehicle from moving unintentionally if the car is not in park or neutral gears. Without this transmission position sensor preventing it from starting, a vehicle could begin reversing or driving forward unintentionally.
How does a Transmission Position Sensor work?
If not in park or neutral in an automatic transmission vehicle, the transmission position sensor cuts the power to the starter control circuit. It stops the power from being sent to the starter control, keeping the vehicle in place.
The switch or sensor can detect which gear the vehicle is in from its strategic positioning on the transmission. It is usually screwed into the transmission body, on the side, to do its job.
A working transmission position sensor will keep the vehicle from cranking, preventing any accidental motion. So it’s clear why it’s essential to replace this part if it fails. Without it, the vehicle can quickly move forward or backward and can cause damage.
Watch out for any of these signs:
- Engine refuses to start in any gear.
- Engine will not start in the park but will start in neutral gear.
- If the engine is in drive or reverse gear, the engine will still start.
How to Replace Your Transmission Position Sensor
- Identify the faulty transmission position sensor switch.
- Lift the vehicle onto jack stands (fully supported).
- Remove the defective transmission position sensor switch.
- Install the new transmission position sensor switch.
- Remove the vehicle from the jack stands.
- Verify the completed repair in the transmission.
- Take the vehicle for a road test.
When to consult a mechanic:
Because the symptoms of a worn-out transmission position sensor are similar to other common problems; it’s essential to hire a professional mechanic to confirm the situation and provide the proper replacement.
If the vehicle can start in gear (other than in park or neutral gears), consulting a mechanic as soon as possible is advisable to prevent any injury or damage to the surrounding area. In addition, the transmission position sensor needs to be replaced immediately.
Our expert mechanics are available seven days a week to perform any diagnostics needed to keep your vehicle in top shape.
Affordable transmission position sensor replacement from expert auto mechanics backed up with a 12 month/12,000-mile guarantee.
Related Battery Repair Services
- Brake Pad Replacement
- Brake System Flush
- Brake Hose Replacement
- Brake Drum Replacement
- Brake Drum Replacement
