Jferreira65

Occasionally I get in, turn the key, and a absolutely nothing happens. If I shift to reverse, then back to park, it starts. Any idea why this could be? I know it’s not a battery issue.

EZEARL

Could be that the NSS (neutral safety switch) on the transmission needs serviced. Do your reverse lights work?

Jferreira65

they do work

EZEARL

Them not working is usually the first indication of a NSS issue BUT not always. Does the CEL (check engine light) come on? If so have the codes scanned. If not still have the codes scanned as soon as it won't start but before you shift the trans to get it to start. Also the next time it won't start put the shifter in neutral and try starting it.

Jferreira65

there is a check engine light on for the leak detection pump. I’ve traced all the lines and haven’t found an issue so it might be the u it itself. Could this contribute to the issue or is it u related? Otherwise I’ll look Into nss. Thanks

lawsoncl

Sounds like the Neutral Safety Switch (NSS) also called the range safety switch and PRNDL switch in the factory service manual. If it starts in (N) as well, I'd bet 99% certain it's the NSS. There are several youtube video on how to clean, repair, and reinstall one. The hardest part is getting it off without breaking it. Pry gently as the back of it is plastic.

1/1200 Cherokee

Definitely the NSS (Transmission Range Sensor). I cleaned mine and it resolved all my problems for about a year (you would be surprised how dirty they get inside). After a year the problem came back but was very rare and I could always start it in neutral. IF that is not the problem check your battery terminals. When my terminals went bad I swore it was the NSS because it had the same start up symptoms (nothing happens when key turns and neutral did not work).