Inhibitor Switch: Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2001 Subaru Outback and 2001 Subaru Legacy. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

When driving condition or starter motor operation is erroneous, first check the shift linkage for improper operation. If the shift linkage is functioning properly, check the inhibitor switch.

Disconnect inhibitor switch connector.
Check continuity in inhibitor switch circuits with select lever moved to each position.
CAUTION: Also check that continuity in ignition circuit does not exist when select lever is in R, D, 3, 2 and 1 ranges.

NOTE: If inhibitor switch is inoperative, check for poor contact of connector on transmission side.

Fig 1: Identifying Inhibitor Switch Circuits, To Be Tested

Fig 2: Identifying Inhibitor Switch Connector Pin Positions
Check if there is continuity at equal points when the select lever is turned 1.5° in both directions from the N range.
If there is continuity in one direction and the continuity in the other or if there is continuity at unequal points, adjust the inhibitor switch.

Fig 3: Checking Continuity