Toyota 84540-07010 Switch Assy, Neutral Start

In the Highlander, the Brake Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI) system operates through two solenoid-controlled components: one located near the ignition key cylinder, and another on the shift lever assembly under the center console connected to a Shift Lock Module that requires signals from the brake pedal switch and the transaxle range sensor to work. The system won't let you take your car out of PARK unless you press down on the brake pedal first. Check these three things: make sure you can't pull out the ignition key when the car isn't in PARK, that the key can spin from OFF to LOCK position only when you're in PARK, and that you can't move the gear out of PARK unless you press the brake pedal when the key is OFF, RUN, or START. When the system doesn't work correctly, fix it by starting with turning the vehicle's negative battery disconnect cable off. To replace the key lock solenoid, lift off the steering column trim, free the electrical connection, turn the solenoid off the key lock cylinder, working backward for reassembly. To remove the shift lock module, remove the shift lever assembly, disconnect the console lamp, part the shift overdrive harness wire ends, pull off the shift lever button, and unscrew the module from the assembly, repeating these steps in reverse to install everything back correctly. When you shift into Park or Neutral, this sensor stops your engine from turning on, but you have to set it right if it lets you start the engine in the wrong gear. If the BTSI (Button Shift Interlock) stops working, you can use a manual override by pressing a button located near the shift lever while the ignition is set to LOCK position. Note: newer models have put a protective cap on this manual button.

To remove and install the Neutral Safety Switch, first, adjust it if the engine starts in any position other than Park or Neutral. Remove the air filter housing and disconnect the shift cable and Automatic Transmission Shift Levers. Loosen the switch retaining bolts if adjusting or removing them and the electrical connector if replacing. To install, align the line on the Neutral Safety Switch body with the groove in the Neutral Safety Switch pivot and tighten the retaining bolts. Finally, reassemble the components and test the switch's operation. If the vehicle still starts in any position other than Park or Neutral, replace the Neutral Safety Switch.

To adjust the switch on 2009 and earlier four-cylinder models, you need to loosen the switch retaining bolts, rotate the switch until the groove and neutral basic line are aligned, and then tighten the bolts.

Once everything is properly aligned and secured, complete the installation by following the removal steps in reverse order.