Jeep Compass Neutral Safety Switch Guide (2007-2017)
Is a faulty neutral safety switch keeping your Jeep Compass from starting?
- A primary symptom of failure is the engine not starting in Park or Neutral, even with a good battery.
- If your Compass can start in Drive or Reverse, it's a critical safety issue that requires immediate repair.
- There are no specific recalls from NHTSA for this part on the 2007-2017 Jeep Compass.
- Aftermarket brands like Standard Ignition offer a cost-effective alternative to OEM parts, but always confirm fitment.
Is Your Jeep Compass Neutral Safety Switch Failing?
A bad neutral safety switch can cause confusing problems. Your Jeep might not start, but it's not the battery or starter. Or, it might start when it shouldn't. Here are the most common signs that the switch is failing on a 2007-2017 Jeep Compass.
Top Symptoms of a Bad Switch
- No Start or Intermittent Start: The most common symptom is a vehicle that won't crank when you turn the key. You might find it starts in Neutral but not in Park, or you have to jiggle the shifter to get it to start. If your lights and radio turn on but the engine does nothing (no clicking or cranking), 🎬 Watch this if your Jeep Compass won't start. the neutral safety switch is a likely suspect.
- Engine Starts in Any Gear: This is a serious safety hazard. If you can start your engine in Reverse or Drive, the switch has failed and needs immediate replacement. A functioning switch should completely block the starter in any gear besides Park or Neutral.
- Check Engine Light: A failing transmission range sensor will often trigger the Check Engine Light. A common trouble code associated with this failure is P0705, which points to a malfunction in the transmission range sensor circuit. 🎬 Learn about the causes and fixes for code P0705.
- Reverse Lights Don't Work: Because the switch tells the car it's in Reverse, a faulty switch can prevent your backup lights from turning on.
Safety First
If your Compass starts in gear, do not drive it. The vehicle can move unexpectedly, creating a significant risk of an accident. This repair should be made a top priority.
Choosing a New Aftermarket Neutral Safety Switch
For the 2007-2017 Jeep Compass, you have options between original equipment (OEM) parts from Mopar and new aftermarket parts. Since the vehicle is out of its original warranty period, an aftermarket part is a cost-effective choice.
Standard Ignition (Standard Motor Products) is a widely available aftermarket brand. They produce parts that are designed to meet or exceed original specifications. Reviews are generally positive, with many users reporting that the parts work like the original. However, some reviews for other vehicles have mentioned that minor modifications were needed for a perfect fit. When buying any aftermarket part, it's important to verify the fit for your exact year and transmission type.
Cost to Replace a Jeep Compass Neutral Safety Switch
The price for this repair can vary. Below is a table of estimated costs. Aftermarket parts offer significant savings over new OEM parts.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM (Mopar) | $87 - $205 |
| New Aftermarket | $71 - $147 |
| Shop Labor | $90 - $131 |
| Total Estimated Job | $161 - $278 |
Pro Tip: Check for Simple Fixes First
Before buying a new part, check your battery and its connections. A weak or dead battery can mimic a no-start condition. Also, try starting the vehicle in Neutral. If it starts in Neutral but not Park, that's a strong confirmation that the neutral safety switch is the problem.
Known Issues, Recalls, or TSBs
There are no active NHTSA safety recalls or widespread Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) specifically for the failure of the neutral safety switch on the 2007-2017 Jeep Compass. While other recalls exist for this vehicle, they do not pertain to this specific part. Failure of this switch is typically due to normal wear and tear over time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What exactly does the neutral safety switch do?
It's a safety device that ensures your Jeep will only start when the gear selector is in Park or Neutral. It also functions as a transmission range sensor, telling the car's computer what gear is selected for tasks like operating the reverse lights.
Can I drive my Jeep Compass with a bad neutral safety switch?
It is not recommended. If the vehicle starts, you might be able to drive it, but you risk being stranded if it fails to start again. More importantly, if the switch allows the car to start in gear, it becomes a serious safety hazard.
Is replacing the neutral safety switch a DIY job?
For a mechanically inclined person, yes. The switch is located on the outside of the transmission. The job requires safely lifting and supporting the vehicle, disconnecting the shift linkage and electrical connector, and unbolting the old switch. If you are not comfortable working under your vehicle, it's best to leave this job to a professional.
🎬 See this complete guide on how to replace the switch.How do I know if it's the switch or a dead battery?
If the battery is the issue, you will typically hear a clicking sound, or the interior lights and radio will be very dim or won't work at all. If the interior lights and dashboard are bright but the engine makes no attempt to crank when you turn the key in Park, the neutral safety switch is a more likely cause. Try starting it in Neutral to help confirm.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 427003B700 68192769AA W0133-1879061
The Neutral Safety Switch, also known as a Transmission Range Sensor, is located on the exterior of the transmission. It is an electronic switch that communicates the selected gear position to the vehicle's main computer. It typically has a multi-pin electrical connector.
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 Compass:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Jeep Compass Neutral Safety Switch Failing?
- Top Symptoms of a Bad Switch
- Safety First
- Choosing a New Aftermarket Neutral Safety Switch
- Cost to Replace a Jeep Compass Neutral Safety Switch
- Pro Tip: Check for Simple Fixes First
- Known Issues, Recalls, or TSBs
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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