Adjust switch linkage - 2009 Cadillac STS

Look at the linkage if you have already located it and have someone switch on the linkage while you watch it with a flashlight. NO FINGERS You should see a nut and bolt that is on a linkage that will allow adjustment of the "at rest position". After seeing the linkage operate it should be pretty obvious which way to make the adjustment. To adjust, loosen the nut, slide the linkage and retighten. Test by operating the system. I believe I also found that you want to lift the wipers off the windshield so when you move the linkage you are trying to "drag" the wipers over the windshield.

Before you adjust switches, get the car on a lift and be sure the shift linkage is tight. If the linkage is worn, the car may not be fully in park even though the lever and indicator look like the car is in park.

The switch is on the transmission. You should be able to see it when the car is on the lift.

you may not have the rod in the correct position so it pulls and pushes. the key has to push to start and pull the rod back to turn it off. you may have to reinstall the key lock cylinder with the rod in the right place.

The electric part of the ignition switch for my '86 is under the dash at the base of the steering column, and it's actuated by a rod connecting it to the key lock. Sounds like either the rod's worn so it to longer engages the electric switch in all tilt positions, or it's a neutral switch problem. Rod wear is a high-mileage issue, but adjusting the switch (loosening bolts, sliding it microscopically back and retightening bolts, should improve it. If it's a neutral switch problem (automatic transmissions only) then the truck should start with tranny in neutral gear, regardless of tilt position. Problems there are adjusted out at the linkage adjustment under the hood at the firewall, where the linkage emerges. Good luck!

Test/Service/Replace

The circuit on newer cars with automatic transmissions has a neutral safety, or neutral start switch installed between the ignition switch and the starter. The ignition switch cannot operate the starter motor unless the transmission is in park or neutral.
Late model vehicles with manual transmissions have a starter/clutch interlock switch that requires the clutch to be depressed to the floor.
Neutral Safety Switch
Normal operations of a neutral safety switch provides a quick check for the adjustment of the gear selector linkage.

• To do this, move the selector slowly until it clicks into the PARK position.
• Turn the ignition key to the START position.
• If the starter operates, the PARK position is correct.
• After checking the PARK position, move the lever slowly toward the NEUTRAL position until the lever drops at the end of the NEUTRAL stop in the selector gate.
• If the starter also operates at this point, the gearshift linkage is properly adjusted.
• This quick test also tests the adjustment of the neutral safety switch.
• If the engine does not start in either or both of these positions, the neutral safety switch or the gear selector linkage needs adjustment or repair.

CAUTION
Since you must work under the vehicle to adjust most shift linkages make sure you properly raise and support the vehicle before working under it. Also, wear safety glasses or goggles while working under the vehicle.
A voltmeter can be used to check the switch for voltage when the ignition key is turned to the START position with the shift lever in PARK or NEUTRAL. If there is no voltage, the switch should be adjusted or replaced.

if it was the neutral safety switch it more than likely wouldn`t start at all or start when without pushing on the clutch.it sounds more like the linkage could be damaged(think these are cable) or its out of adjustment and needs adjusting.does it feel like its going into gear(like it does when working) but not engaging if so it could be a problem with the transmission.first have the linkage checked out.

Hi!!
You may need to adjust the shifter linkage in relation with the neutral safety switch, if the switch is not aligned in the Park position, it won't send the signal to the starter solenoid to engage.
The adjusting is made at the Neutral Safety Switch - shifter linkage connector on top of the right side of the transmission.
Good Luck!! Don't forget to rate this post!!

Your most likely problem is your neutral safety switch. This can be a bad switch or worn linkage. You can jumper the starter from the hot cable to the starting lug if the starter turns then that pretty much comfirms it's the nuetral safety switch.
If your problem with the nuetral safety switch is caused by the linkage you may be able to adjust the linkage. If there is an adjustment for your car it should be on the steering column under the hood or at the linkage pivit point on the frame below the steering column.

YOU SHOULD BE ABLE TO PUT INTO NETUAL,AND IT START.. YOUR NETUAL SWITCH IS CAUSEING IT NOT TO START.. TRY THAT IF IT STARTS, THEN YOU NEED TO ADJUST THE LINKAGE ALITTLE MORE..HOPE THAT HELPS YOU MAN..KEITH..