1996 Volkswagen Cabrio Neutral Safety Switch Replacement Cost

The neutral safety switch is quickly diagnosed by testing the switch, and related components attached to the gear selector inside the vehicle. A faulty neutral safety switch will most likely be removed and bench tested for confirmation of failure.

Replacement of a steering knuckle on most vehicles is an advanced DIY repair that requires tools, equipment, and experience necessary to remove pressed hubs and bearings (including snap rings that retain the bearings), and to press the components into the new steering knuckle. The ball joints and tie rod end also need to be separated. The vehicle needs to be safely lifted in the air with a jack and jack stands to perform this repair. If you are not comfortable with these repair procedures, it would be wise to find a professional technician for the job.

We always recommend contacting the dealership parts department for revised part numbers. There may be a new part number for the neutral safety switch, and possibly the transmission fluid. When new part numbers are issued, this may be due to a redesigned part that fixes known flaws, or an update. Aftermarket sensors may not have these benefits.

There are many types of transmission fluids, and they are not typically interchangeable. Consulting the owner's manual for your vehicle is the best way to ensure you have the correct fluid for your transmission. If improper transmission fluid is added, the resulting damage could be severe.

Replacing the neutral safety switch at home could be done for more experienced DIYers. The person completing the repair must have an understanding of how the switch functions, how the switch is sealed against transmission fluid leaks, and how to diagnose the switch. If any of these areas are unclear, or if the switch is internal to the transmission, a trusted professional should complete this repair.