Here's a breakdown of what's likely happening and how to troubleshoot it:
What the Neutral Safety Switch Does: This switch prevents the car from starting unless the transmission is in Park or Neutral. It's a safety feature to prevent accidental starting while the car is in gear.
Symptoms of a Faulty Neutral Safety Switch:
* Car won't start, even with the key in the "on" position.
* Car starts intermittently.
* Car starts only in certain gear positions (not just Park or Neutral).
Troubleshooting Steps:
1. Check the Transmission Position: Make absolutely sure the gear selector is firmly in Park or Neutral. A slightly out-of-position selector can cause problems.
2. Check the Shift Linkage: Inspect the linkage connecting the gear selector to the transmission. Look for any looseness, damage, or binding that might prevent the switch from engaging properly.
3. Test the Switch (Advanced): This requires some electrical knowledge and testing equipment (a multimeter). You'll need to access the switch (usually located on the transmission itself) and test its continuity in Park and Neutral positions. A repair manual will show you where the switch is and the correct wiring to test.
4. Replace the Switch (Most Likely Solution): If the switch is faulty, you'll need to replace it. This usually involves:
* Disconnecting the battery's negative terminal.
* Accessing the switch (often requiring removal of some transmission components).
* Carefully removing the old switch and installing the new one.
* Reconnecting the battery.
Important Considerations:
* Safety First: Working on your car's electrical system and transmission can be dangerous. If you're not comfortable with automotive repair, take it to a qualified mechanic.
* Repair Manual: A repair manual specific to your 1990 Chrysler New Yorker is highly recommended. It will provide detailed instructions, diagrams, and specifications for accessing and replacing the neutral safety switch.
* Part Number: When ordering a replacement switch, ensure you get the correct part number for your specific car's year and transmission type.
In short, there's no "reset" button. The solution is to diagnose the problem (is it the switch itself, the linkage, or something else entirely?) and either repair or replace the faulty component. A mechanic can usually diagnose and fix this problem quickly and efficiently.
