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Automotive glossary

Transmission Range Sensor (Gear Selector Switch)

The transmission range sensor tells the car which position the gear selector is in: P, R, N or D.

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What is Transmission Range Sensor (Gear Selector Switch)?

It is mounted on the gearbox or inside it and is linked to the selector shaft. The engine may only start in P or N because of this sensor, and it switches on the reversing lights. Older designs are called neutral safety switches.

How it works

Contacts or Hall elements give a different signal for each selector position.

Why it matters for your car

A faulty sensor can prevent starting, show the wrong gear or leave reversing lights off. Misadjustment after gearbox work is a common cause.

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