Kia Optima Neutral Safety Switch Replacement at your home or office.

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Neutral Safety Switch Replacement Service

How much does a Neutral Safety Switch Replacement cost?

On average, the cost for a Kia Optima Neutral Safety Switch Replacement is $111 with $16 for parts and $95 for labor. Prices may vary depending on your location.

CarServiceEstimateShop/Dealer Price
2011 Kia OptimaL4-2.4LService typeNeutral Safety Switch ReplacementEstimate$146.51Shop/Dealer Price$164.39 - $195.53
2017 Kia OptimaL4-2.0L TurboService typeNeutral Safety Switch ReplacementEstimate$1493.85Shop/Dealer Price$1853.58 - $2910.24
2014 Kia OptimaL4-2.4LService typeNeutral Safety Switch ReplacementEstimate$228.55Shop/Dealer Price$271.96 - $379.64
2003 Kia OptimaL4-2.4LService typeNeutral Safety Switch ReplacementEstimate$126.51Shop/Dealer Price$144.39 - $175.52
2011 Kia OptimaL4-2.0L TurboService typeNeutral Safety Switch ReplacementEstimate$126.51Shop/Dealer Price$144.42 - $175.59
2017 Kia OptimaL4-2.4LService typeNeutral Safety Switch ReplacementEstimate$284.49Shop/Dealer Price$341.88 - $491.52
2004 Kia OptimaL4-2.4LService typeNeutral Safety Switch ReplacementEstimate$131.51Shop/Dealer Price$149.27 - $180.32
2003 Kia OptimaV6-2.7LService typeNeutral Safety Switch ReplacementEstimate$131.51Shop/Dealer Price$149.64 - $180.98
Show example Kia Optima Neutral Safety Switch Replacement prices

What is the Neutral Safety Switch all about?

The neutral safety switch keeps the vehicle from starting when in any gear position other than Park or Neutral. In some vehicles, the switch also monitors gear selection and reverse light feedback data for the vehicle’s computer. Most often mounted to the left-hand side of the transmission, the switch is equipped in vehicles with a transaxle or automatic transmission. Some vehicle neutral safety switches are attached to the shifter mechanism.

Keep in mind:

  • Connected to the starter solenoid, the neutral safety switch completes the starter circuit, allowing the power from the battery to reach the starter only while the gearshift remains in Park or Neutral.
  • The mechanic will check the other systems in your vehicle’s ignition system, such as the starter, battery, and alternator, to make sure those parts are not causing the problem.
  • As a vehicle ages, the neutral safety switch deteriorates.

How it's done:

  • The vehicle is raised and supported on jack stands. The transmission shift lever and cable are removed. The electrical connector is removed from the switch.

  • The neutral safety switch is removed from the transmission. The transmission shaft seal is checked for leaks and replaced as needed.

  • The new neutral safety switch is installed on to the selector shaft and secured while aligning for proper installation alignment.

  • The shift lever and shift cable are reinstalled. The vehicle is checked for proper neutral safety switch operation before the vehicle is lowered off the jack stands.

  • The vehicle is scanned for codes and proper switch indication of gear ranges and road tested for proper operation.

Our recommendation:

Replace a faulty neutral safety switch as soon as possible; otherwise, the vehicle will stop working or suffer engine damage. When the switch does not work properly, the vehicle might jump into gear upon startup. This not only causes damage to the engine itself, but poses a great physical threat to surrounding objects and people. Our expert mechanics will diagnose the neutral safety switch to see if it needs adjustment.

Transmissions that exhibit excessive vibrations cause the switch to go out of alignment over time, which makes vehicle ignition more difficult. When inspecting the neutral safety switch, our expert mechanics check for dirt and grease build-up, moisture, and corrosion. They will also use a test light to confirm a connection through the switch to the starter solenoid.

What common symptoms indicate you may need to replace the Neutral Safety Switch?

  • Engine turns over in any gear, indicating that the neutral safety switch does not work properly and needs replacement
  • Vehicle doesn’t turn over when in Park or Neutral
  • Check Engine Light turns on after ignition

How important is this service?

Replace a faulty neutral safety switch promptly, as driving without a functional switch presents a danger to other drivers, passengers, and those around the vehicle. A faulty neutral safety switch damages the engine, as the vehicle jerks into gear upon startup. The reverse lights could stop working on some vehicles, which creates a safety hazard especially during inclement weather or nighttime.

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Meet some of our expert Kia mechanics

Real customer reviews from Kia owners like you.

Excellent Rating

(600)

Rating Summary
563
14
8
2
13
563
14
8
2
13

Daniel

9 years of experience
43 reviews
Daniel
9 years of experience
Optima 2012 - Coolant is leaking - Sacramento, CA
Great. Was personable, knowledgeable, provided clear and easy to follow advice.

Chuck

4 years of experience
271 reviews
Chuck
4 years of experience
Optima 2013 - Car is not starting - McKinney, TX
Chuck was great, super nice guy polite and knows his cars.

Kenneth

6 years of experience
808 reviews
Kenneth
6 years of experience
Optima 2013 - Brake Pads - Los Angeles, CA
Kenneth is a True Professional! His knowledge and experience far surpasses any auto mechanic I have ever worked with. I refuse to allow anyone other than him work on my vehicles. Awesome Personality and Highly Technical! Absolute Pleasure having his support in maintaining all of my vehicles!

Jay

30 years of experience
1009 reviews
Jay
30 years of experience
Optima 2015 - Oil Pan Gasket - Hemet, CA
This was the second time I used Jay. Just like before he arrived on time and got to work. While working on my car he noticed some things that would need some attention in the near future. Explained to me those were and what type of work that would entail. I appreciate him taking the time to tell me that. He also does qualify work.

Excellent Rating

(600)

Rating Summary
563
14
8
2
13
563
14
8
2
13
Number of Kia Optima services completed
6600+
services done by our mechanics
TOTAL NUMBER OF EXPERT Kia MECHANICS
1000+
experts on our platform

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