Starting in Park - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

Dave Bunker · #1 01-11-2005, 10:48 AM

My 87 420 all of a sudden will not start in park. It will start in neutural (N). I'm sure it's a switch. Can anyone tell me where to check first....thank you..

Dave B

JoeR · #2 01-11-2005, 11:21 AM

More than likely it is the shift rod bushings are worn (or missing). They are on the levers at the bottom of the shifter and on the transmission that the rod connects.

This symptom is usually a sign of that. The switch is behind the lever on the transmission. There is a common contact for both P & N. If the switch is bad, the symptom will occur in both positions.

Check those bushings 1st and let us know.

Dave Bunker · #3 01-11-2005, 11:27 AM

I replaced the bushings last year. Should not be the cause....next day off I will crawl under to inspect....anyother ideas....

Dave Bunker · #4 01-11-2005, 11:29 AM

if the switch is bad, you say it will cause no start in both positions. So far it will start in (N) only......this is a daily driver. Is there a way to start if (N) becomes a problem too....

abe g · #5 01-11-2005, 01:02 PM

I had this problem, try this possible solution:switch gets dirt and corrosion, is on left (drivers side) of transmission body, spray with WD 40 over the switch and area, (cant hurt) and may give you contact back on park to start. good luck Abe G