Inhibitor Switch: Inspection

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

1. Disconnect the ground cable from battery. Ref. to NOTE>NOTE>BATTERY .
   NOTE: For model with battery sensor, disconnect the ground terminal from battery sensor.
2. Remove the air intake boot assembly. Ref. to INTAKE (INDUCTION) (H4DO)>Air Intake Boot>REMOVAL .
3. Disconnect the inhibitor harness connector.
   Fig 1: Locating Inhibitor Harness Connector

   Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
4. Check for continuity in inhibitor switch circuit by shifting the select lever in "P", "R", "N" and "D" respectively.
   NOTE:

   • Check that there is no continuity in the starter circuit when the select lever is in the "R" and "D" ranges.
   • When inhibitor switch is normal, check there is no poor contact in vehicle side connector and no open circuit in harness.

   Signal sent to TCM	Range	Terminal No.
   	P	1 - 7
   	R	2 - 7
   	N	3 - 7
   	D	4 - 7
   Starter circuit	P/N	15 - 16
   Backup light circuit	R	13 - 14

   Fig 2: Identifying Inhibitor Switch Connector Terminals

   Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
5. Check that there is continuity at equal points when the select lever is moved 1.5° in both directions from the "N" range.

   If there is continuity in only one direction or in other points, adjust the inhibitor switch. Ref. to CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE TRANSMISSION (TR580)>Inhibitor Switch>ADJUSTMENT .

   Fig 3: Checking Inhibitor Switch Continuity

   Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
6. Repeat the above inspection in other gear ranges. If there is fault, adjust the inhibitor switch and select cable. Ref. to CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE TRANSMISSION (TR580)>Inhibitor Switch>ADJUSTMENT . Ref. to CONTROL SYSTEMS>Select Cable>ADJUSTMENT .