Guide to the 1986-1997 Jeep Cherokee Back Up Light Switch
Your complete guide to diagnosing and replacing the back up light switch on your XJ Cherokee.
- First, confirm if your Cherokee is an automatic or manual. The parts are completely different.
- For automatics, try cleaning the Neutral Safety Switch (NSS) before buying a new one. It's a common, often free fix.
- If replacing the NSS on an automatic, be aware that aftermarket quality can be inconsistent.
- For manual transmissions, this is a simple switch and an easy DIY replacement for most owners.
Is Your Back Up Light Switch Failing?
If your reverse lights don't come on, the switch is a likely suspect, but it's not the only one. A bad switch can also cause other issues, especially on automatic Cherokees where it's part of the Neutral Safety Switch (NSS). Before buying a new part, it's good to know all the signs.
Automatic Transmission (AW4) Symptoms:
- No Reverse Lights: This is the most common symptom. The internal contacts for the reverse light circuit inside the NSS get dirty or wear out.
- No-Crank, No-Start: The engine does nothing when you turn the key. This can be intermittent.
- Starts in Neutral but Not Park (or vice-versa): If you have to wiggle the shifter to get the Jeep to start, the NSS is likely the problem. 🎬 See how to replace the NSS to fix no-start issues.
- Check Engine Light: A faulty NSS can sometimes trigger a check engine light with codes like P0705, indicating a fault in the transmission range sensor circuit.
Manual Transmission (AX-5, AX-15, BA-10/5) Symptoms:
- No Reverse Lights: This is the primary symptom. The switch is a simple plunger style, and it can fail internally or the wiring can be damaged.
- Reverse Lights Stuck On: Less common, but the switch can fail in the 'on' position, keeping your reverse lights lit.
A Common Fix for Automatics: Clean Your NSS!
For Cherokees with the automatic AW4 transmission, the Neutral Safety Switch often just needs a good cleaning, not a replacement. Dirt and old grease build up inside, causing poor contact. Many owners have successfully restored function by removing the switch, carefully opening it, cleaning the internal contacts with electrical cleaner, and re-greasing with dielectric grease. This can save you over a hundred dollars. There are many video guides online showing how to do this.
🎬 Watch this guide on how to clean your NSS for cheap.Choosing the Right Aftermarket Switch
It is critical to buy the right part for your transmission. A switch for a manual will not work on an automatic, and vice-versa.
Brand Quality Tiers
For a simple part like a backup light switch, aftermarket options are usually a good value. Here's a general breakdown of the brands based on owner feedback:
- Good Quality (Tier 1): Standard Ignition is a well-regarded brand for electrical components. Their parts are known for consistent quality and are a solid choice if you want to replace the part and not worry about it again.
- Standard / OE-Style (Tier 2): Crown Automotive and Omix-Ada are very common in the Jeep world. They often supply parts that are otherwise hard to find. For a simple manual transmission switch, they are a cost-effective option. However, for the more complex automatic NSS, some users report mixed results, with some parts failing early.
- Value (Tier 3): Vemo and other lower-priced brands can be a gamble. While they might work fine, the quality control can be inconsistent. Given the labor involved in replacing the NSS on an automatic, many owners recommend spending a bit more for a better-quality part.
A Warning on Aftermarket Automatic Switches (NSS)
While cleaning the original NSS is the preferred first step, if you must replace it, be aware that some aftermarket units have a reputation for being lower quality than the original Mopar part. Some owners report that cheaper parts may not last long or may require adjustment to work correctly. If you are replacing the NSS, consider it a "get what you pay for" situation.
Estimated Costs
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket (Manual Switch) | $35 - $60 |
| New Aftermarket (Automatic NSS) | $40 - $90 |
| New OEM (Mopar) | $250 - $400+ (if available) |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $250 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the back up light switch the same as the neutral safety switch?
On a 1986-1997 Jeep Cherokee with an automatic transmission, yes. The function of the back up light switch is built into the Neutral Safety Switch (NSS). On a manual transmission Cherokee, it is a separate, simpler switch.
Where is the back up light switch located on my Cherokee?
For automatic transmissions, the Neutral Safety Switch (NSS) is located on the passenger side of the transmission housing. For manual transmissions, the switch is typically screwed into the side of the transmission case, often on the driver's side.
Can I just clean my old switch instead of replacing it?
For automatic transmissions, absolutely. Cleaning the Neutral Safety Switch (NSS) is a very common and often successful repair that can save you a lot of money. The internal contacts get dirty and stop working correctly. For the simpler manual switch, replacement is usually easier and more effective 🎬 Learn how to replace the reverse light sensor on manual transmissions. if it has failed.
Why do my reverse lights work sometimes, or only if I wiggle the shifter?
This is a classic symptom of a failing or dirty Neutral Safety Switch (NSS) on an automatic Cherokee. The contacts inside the switch are worn or corroded, and wiggling the shifter temporarily restores the connection. This indicates the switch needs to be cleaned or replaced soon.
Are there any recalls for the back up light switch?
A search of the NHTSA database shows no specific recalls for the back up light switch or neutral safety switch on the 1986-1997 Jeep Cherokee. Most issues are related to normal wear and tear on these older vehicles.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 56002735 56027937 J8134475
Varies by transmission. Manual transmission uses a 2-pin plunger switch. Automatic transmission uses a multi-pin Neutral Safety Switch (NSS) mounted on the side of the transmission.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Jeep Cherokee:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Back Up Light Switch Failing?
- Automatic Transmission (AW4) Symptoms:
- Manual Transmission (AX-5, AX-15, BA-10/5) Symptoms:
- A Common Fix for Automatics: Clean Your NSS!
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Switch
- Brand Quality Tiers
- A Warning on Aftermarket Automatic Switches (NSS)
- Estimated Costs
- Frequently Asked Questions
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