94 Camry..Verification Requested!

[colt45rbc]

My 94 Camry LE (4cyl) has 297k. Every now & then I go to start it, all the dash lights come on & nothing. I'm assuming its the safety neutral switch. My mechanic suggested moving the shifter back & forth to clean the contacts. After doing this it will intermittently engage & start. New switch is $380, ouch. I have searched the forums for a similar query, but no luck. Is this switch serviceable???? Thanx for your reply....Rob

[toyomoho]

The unit looks like it can be taken apart for contact cleaning. Doubt you will be able to find individual replacement parts, if needed.

Try websites such as rockauto for much cheaper prices on aftermarket parts.

[Jimnist]

You could try adjusting it to see if it helps. Other than that, if you don't want to buy new, you buy aftermarket like toyo said or you could even go to the wreckers.

[colt45rbc]

Thanx Toyo & Jimnist. So you agree that the SN switch is probably the problem????????????????

[new echo owner]

Get a test light, check the terminal at the start, if you don't have power there when the key is turn to start, check at the starter relay. Then backward to the S/N switch.

N.E.O.

[colt45rbc]

Originally Posted by new echo owner

Get a test light, check the terminal at the start, if you don't have power there when the key is turn to start, check at the starter relay. Then backward to the S/N switch.

N.E.O.

Thanx N.E.O. great thought, but can you explain "check the terminal at the start"??? S/N switch?? Thanx Rob

[new echo owner]

Sorry, I meant starter. There are two wires going to the starter, the Positive cable and the solenoid wire; the solenoid wire is the one I am referring to. That wire is easier to get to then the S/N switch. Furthermore, if it is the S/N switch, you have two different set of contacts, the one for Park and the one for Neutral, unless it is the wiring or connector. Has the battery been leaking acid? Because that is the most common cause of the S/N switch to fail.

N.E.O.

[colt45rbc]

Originally Posted by new echo owner

Sorry, I meant starter. There are two wires going to the starter, the Positive cable and the solenoid wire; the solenoid wire is the one I am referring to. That wire is easier to get to then the S/N switch. Furthermore, if it is the S/N switch, you have two different set of contacts, the one for Park and the one for Neutral, unless it is the wiring or connector. Has the battery been leaking acid? Because that is the most common cause of the S/N switch to fail.

N.E.O.

So N.E.O...It is save to say the S/N switch is located in the area below the battery shelf. Battery has not leaked as far as I know. Thanx again Rob

[new echo owner]

It is mounted on the front side of the transmission, follow the shift cable down. It is right below the battery tray.

N.E.O.