98 JGC -Reverse lights not working

[va_fishnut]

The reverse lights in our 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee have stopped working.
I've checked the fuses and bulbs. I suspect a problem with a switch on the shifter or transmission. Any help or advise is appreciated.
Thanks,
Brian

[va_fishnut]

After further reading I see it may be the Neutral Safety Switch. I found a link for cleaning/rehabbing the existing switch. Think I may try that to get them working for upcoming inspection. any advice? feel free to post it!

[bringselpup]

I would only add don't be surprised if you find you have to replace the switch. Mine was so corroded there was no hope of saving it. Do some careful exploration first because if you have to take it off in pieces like mine you'll want to have the new one at hand or you won't be starting the vehicle until you get one. The business where you can only start in Park or Neutral is in that switch too.

I got one off ebay for I think $95 and it was the exact one you'll get from any auto parts franchise.

[va_fishnut]

After further research, I have found that the 1998 has a Park/Neutral Position (PNP) switch on the transmission. NO NSS. I suspect this is the problem because the Hayes manual shows how to test continuity of the reverse part of the switch. Did a visual inspection and was able to locate the switch on the transmission but not sure how to get the connector off yet. Will try when I'm ready to spend some more time with it. Any input on this is much appreciated. Thanks, Brian.

[dksob81]

Originally Posted by va_fishnut

After further research, I have found that the 1998 has a Park/Neutral Position (PNP) switch on the transmission. NO NSS. I suspect this is the problem because the Hayes manual shows how to test continuity of the reverse part of the switch. Did a visual inspection and was able to locate the switch on the transmission but not sure how to get the connector off yet. Will try when I'm ready to spend some more time with it. Any input on this is much appreciated. Thanks, Brian.

The Park/Nuetral Position Switcha nd Neutral Safety Switch are one in the same, when you go to the part store you will want to ask for a Neutral Safety Switch.

The connector is just a rubber boot, it just slides right off the NSS.

[1964AVANTI]

The connector does not just pull off on a 98. If it does the wire side of the connector has broken clips. I have used a small flat blade screwdriver to push the push clips to the side to release the connector. There is not much room so a small scredriver is a must.

A one inch socket will be needed to remove the switch. Also have a small pan handy to catch dripping trans oil.

Switch fails due to trans fluid getting past internal seals in the switch.

I have repaced 2 on my 98 and found the Jeep part fits right the first time.