Starting problems

Automatic car won't start unless in Park

Automatic transmissions require the shifter to be firmly in Park (or sometimes Neutral) before the starter will engage, so a car that won't start is often simply not fully seated in Park.

Difficulty
Moderate
Time
20–40 minutes
DIY cost
$20–$150
Pro cost
$150–$400

Symptoms

  • Car won't start with the shifter appearing to be in Park
  • Starter does nothing or clicks
  • Works once the shifter is moved firmly into Park
  • Shifter may feel like it's not fully seating in the gate

Likely causes

  • CommonShifter not fully engaged in ParkThe shifter can look like it's in Park without the internal switch actually registering it.
  • CommonWorn or misaligned neutral safety switch (park/neutral position switch)This switch tells the car it's safe to start and can wear or shift out of alignment.
  • PossibleShift cable or linkage stretched or misadjustedA stretched cable can cause the shifter position to not match the actual transmission position.
  • PossibleBrake pedal not fully depressed (needed to shift and often to start)Many vehicles require the brake pedal down to allow shifting and starting.
  • Less commonFaulty ignition switch not sending the start signalLess common, but can mimic a park/neutral switch problem.

What to do

  1. Firmly shift into Park, making sure you feel and/or hear it seat fully, then try starting.
  2. Press the brake pedal all the way down while shifting and starting, since many vehicles require this.
  3. Try shifting to Neutral and attempting to start there as a diagnostic step (many cars will start in Neutral too).
  4. If Neutral works but Park doesn't, suspect the park/neutral safety switch or a shift cable adjustment issue.
  5. Wiggle the shifter slightly while in Park to see if it makes a difference, which can indicate a linkage problem.
  6. Avoid forcing the shifter, and have the shift cable and linkage inspected if it feels loose or doesn't seat solidly.
  7. Have a mechanic check and adjust or replace the park/neutral safety switch if basic troubleshooting doesn't help.
  8. Get this fixed promptly, since a shifter that isn't reliably registering Park can also affect safe parking on hills.

Tools and parts

  • None for basic troubleshooting
Park/neutral safety switchSearch: “park neutral safety switch for [year make model]”
Shift cable/linkageSearch: “transmission shift cable for [year make model]”

When to call a pro

If Neutral starts the car but Park doesn't, or the shifter feels loose, have a mechanic check the shift cable and park/neutral safety switch.

Safety

Generally low risk

Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.

Related guides

Operator provides AI-generated troubleshooting information. It can be wrong. For safety-critical, electrical, gas, structural, medical, automotive safety, or other high-risk problems, consult a qualified professional.