Range Rover Won't Go To Neutral: What You Should Try!

If a Range Rover won’t shift into neutral, it may be due to a mechanical issue with the transmission or a problem with the shift linkage.

It’s essential to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to diagnose and address the specific problem, as driving in this condition can affect safety and performance.

Read on to see the common signs and symptoms of when a Range Rover won’t go to neutral.

What models are affected?

Signs and symptoms

When your Range Rover won’t go into neutral, you may notice some of the following signs and symptoms:

Gear selector is stuck in park
Emergency brake is engaged
Engine won’t start
The transmission won’t shift
You can’t remove the key from the ignition

List of possible OBD codes

When diagnosing a Range Rover that won’t go into neutral, these OBD codes may be relevant:

P0706- Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
P0707- Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Low Input
P0708- Transmission Range Sensor Circuit High Input
P0850-Park/Neutral Switch Input Circuit

Buying guide: Best Land Rover OBD2 scanner tools

Common causes

Some common causes of a Range Rover not going into neutral may include:

1. Park/neutral position switch malfunctioning

The switch may need replacing or readjusting.

2. Shifter assembly damage

Dirt, debris, or damage may prevent the shifter from engaging with the transmission.

3. Brake switch malfunctioning

The brake switch tells the transmission when it’s safe to shift out of the park. A malfunctioning switch can cause problems.

4. Low brake fluid level

This can cause the brake switch to malfunction.

5. Faulty transmission control module (TCM)

The TCM controls the transmission and may need to be replaced or reset.

6. Dead battery

A dead battery can prevent the TCM from working.

Can it be fixed without a mechanic?

It depends on the cause of the problem. If it’s a simple adjustment or a switch that needs replacing, it’s possible to fix it without taking it to a mechanic.

However, if the issue is with the TCM or the transmission itself, it’s best to take it to a professional.

Parts you’ll need to fix it

To fix the issue, you may need the following parts:

Park/neutral position switch
Shifter assembly
Brake switch
Transmission control module
Battery

Tools you’ll need to fix it

Some tools you may need to fix a Range Rover that won’t go into neutral include:

Socket set and screwdriver
Multimeter
Battery charger
Diagnostic scanner

How to fix it

Here’s a step-by-step guide to fixing a Range Rover that won’t go into neutral:

Open the hood of the car and disconnect the battery.
Remove the shifter cover, which should be located to the right of the gear selector. You may need to lift the plastic tab with a flathead screwdriver and then gently lift the cover.
Look for the white plastic pin that connects the shifter handle to the transmission. Wiggle it gently to see if it’s stuck. If it’s stuck, try pushing the button at the base of the shifter to move the gear selector out of the park.
Check the park/neutral position switch and brake switch. Use a multimeter to test the switches for resistance. If they’re not functioning properly, replace them.
Check the transmission control module (TCM) using a diagnostic scanner. If it’s faulty, replace it or reset it.
Reconnect the battery and start the car. Test the gear selector to see if it’s functioning properly.

Potential alternative causes

While the causes listed above are the most common reasons for a Range Rover not going into neutral, there are some potential alternative causes such as:

A faulty ignition switch
A damaged shift cable
Transmission issues

FAQs

What should I do if my Range Rover won’t go into neutral?

First, make sure the emergency brake is disengaged. Try wiggling the white plastic pin and pressing the button on the shifter handle. If that doesn’t work, check the park/neutral position switch, brake switch, and TCM.

Can I fix my Range Rover not going into neutral myself?

It depends on the cause of the problem. If it’s a simple fix, such as an adjustment or switch replacement, it’s possible to fix it yourself. However, if it’s more complicated, it’s best to take it to a mechanic.

What is the average cost to fix a Range Rover not going into neutral?

The cost to fix a Range Rover not going into neutral varies based on the cause of the problem and the labor costs in your area. It’s best to get an estimate from a mechanic.

Summary

If your Range Rover won’t go into neutral, it may be due to a malfunctioning park/neutral position switch, shifter assembly, brake switch, TCM, or dead battery.

While some of these issues can be fixed at home, others may require the help of a mechanic.

Range Rover won’t go to neutral: what you should try!