Good afternoon, everyone.

I am normally not one to take part in these types of forums, but this morning I came across a problem that is quite inconvenient. I own a 2004 5 speed Elantra, which has been my daily driver since it was bought new. The car has not been starting when the gearbox is in neutral, it just clicks as if the battery were dead. However, when I start it in first gear, it fires problem free. Has anyone come across this problem before? Any insight as to what the problem may be?

 

That is a strange problem. My guess is that there is a loose conneciton on the starter and when you put it into first gear, the engine rocks just enough to make the connection. That's just a guess though.... but maybe start by checking your electrical connections to the starter.

 

the car isn't going to start in neutral unless you press the clutch pedal(guessing that you're not) so when you put in 1st gear you have to press the clutch that's when it will start. just my 2 cents since i'm not around the car to diagnose the problem.

 

Nah, I'm always on the clutch at startup whether it's in neutral or not. Thanks for the input, though.


I'll look into your suggestion, Doohickie. Seems like a possible culprit.

 

look into your neutral safety switch . it could be malfunctioning

 

Could be the neutral safety switch..