Ford Explorer Neutral Safety Switch & Transmission Range Sensor Guide (2012-2019)
Fix no-start problems, erratic shifting, and Check Engine Light codes on your 2012-2019 Ford Explorer.
- A no-start issue where the engine cranks in Neutral but not Park is a classic sign of a bad Neutral Safety Switch.
- This part is also called a Transmission Range Sensor (TRS); a failure can cause a P0705 trouble code and erratic shifting.
- A quality aftermarket brand like Standard Ignition is a cost-effective alternative to a much more expensive OEM part.
- Do not drive with a faulty switch; it can leave you stranded or create a safety hazard if the car starts in gear.
Is Your Explorer Refusing to Start? It Could Be the Neutral Safety Switch
If you turn the key in your 2012-2019 Ford Explorer and nothing happens, you might blame the battery or starter. However, a faulty Neutral Safety Switch, or Transmission Range Sensor (TRS), is a common cause for a no-start condition. This sensor can fail electrically or mechanically, leaving you stranded or causing serious transmission performance issues. Understanding the symptoms can help you diagnose the problem correctly and choose the right replacement part.
🎬 Watch: How to test and replace a faulty inhibitor switchCommon Symptoms of a Failing Switch
A bad Transmission Range Sensor can cause several distinct problems. Look out for these signs:
- No-Start Condition: The engine won't crank when in Park, but may start when you shift to Neutral. In advanced failure, it may not start in any gear.
- Check Engine Light: The sensor can trigger a check engine light. A common trouble code is P0705, which points to a malfunction in the sensor's circuit. 🎬 Watch: Understanding the causes and fixes for the P0705 code
- Starts in Any Gear: This is a serious safety risk. If the switch fails, it might allow the engine to start while in Drive or Reverse, causing the vehicle to move unexpectedly.
- Reverse Lights Don't Work: If your backup lights fail to turn on when you shift into Reverse, the sensor may be the culprit.
- Erratic Shifting: Your Explorer's transmission might shift harshly, feel like it's slipping, or get stuck in one gear (known as 'limp mode').
Known Issues and Technical Service Bulletins (TSB)
While no direct recalls exist for the neutral safety switch on the 2012-2019 Explorer, Ford did issue TSB 13-5-27 for earlier models (2009-2011) with the same 6F50/6F55 transmission family. This TSB addresses issues like transmission slipping, a neutral-out condition, and the backup camera staying on in Drive due to high resistance in the TR sensor. These symptoms are very similar to those seen in the 2012-2019 models, suggesting a known potential weakness in the sensor's design over time.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Part: Standard Ignition
When replacing the Transmission Range Sensor, you don't have to buy the expensive OEM part. A quality aftermarket brand like Standard Ignition offers a reliable and cost-effective solution. Standard Motor Products has been making automotive electrical parts for over 100 years and is a trusted name among professional technicians. Their parts are designed to be direct-fit replacements that match the function of the original sensor, ensuring proper communication with your vehicle's computer. For a part like this, a reputable aftermarket option provides a good balance of quality and value.
Pro Tip: Alignment is Key
When installing a new Transmission Range Sensor, proper alignment is critical. The sensor must be perfectly aligned with the transmission in the Neutral position. Most new sensors have alignment marks to guide the installation. Incorrect alignment can cause the same problems as a bad sensor, such as not starting or incorrect gear readings. If you are doing the job yourself, make sure the transmission is in Neutral and the marks on the new sensor are lined up before tightening the bolts.
Replacement Cost
| Part Source | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM | $150 - $400 |
| New Aftermarket (Standard Ignition) | $72 - $108 |
| Shop Labor | $120 - $250 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still drive my Explorer with a bad Neutral Safety Switch?
It is not recommended. A failing switch can leave you stranded with a no-start condition at any time. More critically, if the switch allows the car to start in gear, it creates a serious safety hazard. It can also cause erratic shifting and potential transmission damage.
Is a Transmission Range Sensor the same as a Neutral Safety Switch?
Yes, for modern vehicles like the 2012-2019 Explorer, these terms refer to the same part. "Neutral Safety Switch" describes its primary safety function, while "Transmission Range Sensor" (TRS) describes its broader job of reporting the selected gear to the vehicle's computer.
Where is the Neutral Safety Switch located on a 2012-2019 Ford Explorer?
The sensor is typically mounted on the exterior of the transmission case, where the gear shift linkage connects to the transmission. Accessing it requires safely lifting the vehicle with jack stands.
Can I replace the Neutral Safety Switch myself?
Yes, this is a feasible DIY job for someone with mechanical experience. You will need to safely lift and support the vehicle, and have basic hand tools. The most important part of the job is ensuring the new sensor is correctly aligned. If you are not comfortable with this, a professional mechanic can perform the replacement in about 1-2 hours.
🎬 See this walkthrough on replacing the sensor without special toolsHelpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: AE8Z-7F293-A DG1Z-7F293-A
The Neutral Safety Switch, or Transmission Range Sensor, for the 2012-2019 Ford Explorer is an electronic sensor mounted on the 6F50/6F55 automatic transmission. It communicates the PRNDL gear selection to the vehicle's computer.
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.
- Ford Explorer:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Explorer Refusing to Start? It Could Be the Neutral Safety Switch
- Common Symptoms of a Failing Switch
- Known Issues and Technical Service Bulletins (TSB)
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Part: Standard Ignition
- Pro Tip: Alignment is Key
- Replacement Cost
- Frequently Asked Questions
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