My rhd 97 x300 has developed a minor issue in relation, I think, to the "start inhibit switch". It began as a refusal to start, no crank, no solenoid "click" on a full battery. I had a similar problem many years back with an automatic Ford Sierra and that's what points me in this direction. Also, with the key held in the start position, it did fire, when I slowly moved the gear stick away from me, towards the passenger seat (RHD), just out of its' normal "park" position. This doesnt work anymore, but it will start if I move the gear stick down the gate and pause around the N position. I had the ski slope out and examined anything that was apparently obvious, and the "Not in Park Switch" functions perfectly well. So, where is the inhibit switch, is it in the centre console/tunnel area, maybe inside the lille black box next to the gear shift mechanism? Or is it outside on the gearbox somewhere? Also, would any adjustment of the gear shift cable/drive help matters as obviously something has gone out of kilter.

Many thanks in advance.

 

It helped for mine. It's a known issue on these cars.

 

Many thanks for the response, but what exactly "helped" on yours? Was it something I said? lol

 

Adjustment of the shifter cable.

 

Hi. I've got the same prob on my 1995 4.0 X300. Just wanted to know did you sort it out. If so what was it. many thanks Jason

 

Remove the ski slope, look at the RH side of the gearlever base, and there is a longish plastic thing with wires coming out the front. that is the neutral start switch, or "Linear Switch" in Jag talk. Part # LNA6550BA. It is attached with 2, I think, screws to the metal housing. The switch is slightly adjustable at these mounts, if not enough, then cable adjustment will be required to get it right.

Generally removal and a good clean restores proper function.

They were a known issue with the XJ40, and this is the same arrangement.

 

Hi. Will try that today. Thankyou for the advise will let you know if it works