Dodge Spirit Neutral Safety Switch Guide (1990-1995)
If your Spirit won't start in Park but starts in Neutral, this guide is for you.
- The classic symptom of failure is the engine starting in Neutral but not in Park.
- This is a common failure point on these vehicles and is often mistaken for a bad starter or battery.
- The switch is located on the outside of the transmission and is a straightforward replacement for a DIYer.
- Standard Motor Products (SMP) is a trusted aftermarket brand for this replacement part.
Is Your Spirit Refusing to Start?
A common problem for the 1990-1995 Dodge Spirit is a no-start or intermittent starting issue. You turn the key, the dashboard lights up, but the engine doesn't crank. Many owners first suspect the battery or the starter, but often, the real culprit is a faulty neutral safety switch. This component is a known failure point on older Chrysler vehicles. Over time, the internal contacts can wear out or the switch can become misaligned, preventing it from telling the starter that it's safe to engage.
Symptoms of a Failing Neutral Safety Switch
Look out for these common signs:
- Starts in Neutral, But Not in Park: This is the most classic symptom. If you have to shift into Neutral to get your Spirit to start, the neutral safety switch is almost certainly the problem. This indicates wear or misalignment in the switch's contacts for the Park position.
- Engine Won't Crank at All: The switch may fail completely, creating an open circuit. In this case, the engine won't crank in Park or Neutral. You'll turn the key and hear nothing, even though the battery is good.
- Starts in Any Gear: This is a serious safety hazard. If the switch shorts internally, it might allow the engine to start in Drive or Reverse. If this happens, the vehicle must be repaired immediately.
- Reverse Lights Don't Work: Since the switch also controls the backup lights, their failure can be a clue, especially when combined with starting issues.
Pro Tip: The Wiggle Test
If your Spirit doesn't start in Park, try wiggling the gear shifter while holding the key in the 'start' position. Sometimes, this can make a temporary connection and allow the car to start. This strongly points to a worn or misaligned neutral safety switch.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Part
For a vehicle like the 1990-1995 Dodge Spirit, new OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts from Mopar are likely discontinued or very difficult to find. The good news is that the aftermarket offers reliable replacements.
Standard Motor Products (SMP): This is the most common and readily available brand for this part. Standard is a well-respected company in the aftermarket industry that has been around for decades. They are known for producing parts that meet or exceed original specifications. For the Dodge Spirit, their parts (like the NS-240) are a direct-fit replacement and are considered a quality, professional-grade choice. Forum users and mechanics often trust SMP for electrical components as a reliable alternative to OEM.
Estimated Costs
| New Aftermarket Part (Standard Ignition) | $38.83 - $56.49 |
| Estimated Shop Labor | $61 - $90 |
| Estimated Total Professional Replacement | $99 - $146 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where is the neutral safety switch located on a 1990-1995 Dodge Spirit?
The neutral safety switch is a 3-prong switch located on the outside of the automatic transmission housing. You will need to safely raise the vehicle to access it from underneath. It screws into the transmission case, and the shift linkage lever interacts with it.
Is this a difficult part to replace myself?
For a DIY mechanic with the right tools, this is a relatively simple job. It involves safely lifting the vehicle, disconnecting the electrical connector, and unscrewing the old switch with a deep socket (often 1-inch). Some transmission fluid may leak out, so have a drain pan ready. The most important part of the installation is proper adjustment to ensure it works correctly in both Park and Neutral.
Are there any recalls for the Dodge Spirit neutral safety switch?
There are no specific safety recalls from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the neutral safety switch on the 1990-1995 Dodge Spirit.
What if I replace the switch and the car still won't start?
If a new switch doesn't solve the problem, first check the basics: battery connections, battery charge, and the starter relay. The issue could also be in the wiring or connector going to the switch, or a misadjusted shift linkage cable. Ensure the new switch is adjusted correctly so it is properly activated by the shifter in Park and Neutral.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 3747361 4057750 2932820
3-prong/terminal switch for A413 or A670 automatic transaxles.
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.
- Dodge Spirit: