How do I adjust the backup lights

[copo]

How do I adjust the backup lights so they work when the car goes from P to R? It works if I move the shifter from N to R.

 

[gofstbuick]

There is a switch at the base of the steering column and on the top of the column. I think it is the neutral safety switch. A mechanism on the switch slides from side to side. Turn the key on with the engine off and place gear selector in reverse. Then slide the switch until the reverse lights light up.

 

[copo]

Thx

 

[scottyb]

Mines a little touchy as well. I haven't messed with the switch, but when I go from P to R, I push up on the shifter so it goes against the P stop. This makes them light up.

Maybe I shouldn't be so damn lazy and fix the switch.

 

[d0n_3d]

HEY my car does the same thing...backup lights don't go on when I go from P to R but they light up when I go from N to R...must be a common problem with these cars...I'll try adjusting the safety switch if I can find it! Thanks.

 

[copo]

Will the switch stay locked in place after sliding it to the desired position? Is there a lock screw there? I haven't looked yet.

 

[KEVINS]

Originally posted by copo
Will the switch stay locked in place after sliding it to the desired position? Is there a lock screw there? I haven't looked yet.

There should be 2 screws that you have to loosen in order to slide the switch around then you snug them back up.

ks

 

[gofstbuick]

There are no screws to loosen or remove, unless you're replacing the switch. The switchn slides from side to side and clicks, sot of like the detent cable adjustment.

 

[KEVINS]

Originally posted by gofstbuick
There are no screws to loosen or remove, unless you're replacing the switch. The switchn slides from side to side and clicks, sot of like the detent cable adjustment.

I thought there were slots for the screws for fine tuning the placement.. I could be wrong, tho..

ks

 

[copo]

ok, I removed the trim piece and crawled under and see a white connector on the top of the column and used a small mirror to see what's up. I see dick all there to adjust, plus it's tight up there. So what colour is this switch? Anyone know for sure this is how to adjust them?

 

[copo]

Finally fixed it !!

It's the white switch. Put your finger on the top centre where the slightly raised part is for a finger and slide the top half clockwise until they come on. There are small indented stripes that keep the top and bottom locked into place but still enables you to slide the top part. My backup lights never ever worked unless I went from N to R. I slid the top piece about a 1/2" clockwise.

PS, have a person behind the car so you don't have to crawl in and out of the floor area while you curse.

 

[Turbo Brian]

The switch usually doesn't get out of adjustment, but the rod that connects to the tranny does. That rod probably has slipped slightly, causing the backup lights to come on at the wrong time.

I would loosen the pinch bolt on the drive rod that comes down to the transmission, push the rod up slightly, and retighten. Then have someone go through the gears and see when the backup lights come on. Usually it will only take a couple of tries to get it right.