Shifty Subaru

This TSB involves diagnosing P0851 (neutral switch input circuit low) and P0852 (neutral switch input circuit high) on 2005-2008 Subaru Outback, Impreza and Forester vehicles equipped with the 4EAT.

Using the Subaru Select Monitor, check for diagnostic trouble codes stored in memory. If P0851 and/or P0852 are stored in memory, adjust the inhibitor switch and select cable.

1. Set the select lever to the N range.
2. Loosen the three inhibitor switch securing bolts.
3. Insert special tool 499267300 stopper pin as vertical as possible into the holes in the inhibitor switch lever and switch body.
4. Tighten the three inhibitor switch securing bolts to 2.5 ft.-lbs. and then remove the special tool (pin).
5. With the select lever already in the N range, loosen the adjusting nuts A and B on both sides.
6. Turn the adjusting nut B until it lightly touches the connector.
7. Use a spanner wrench to hold nut B so that it does not rotate, and then tighten the adjusting nut A to 5.5 ft.-lbs.
8. After the completion of adjustment, confirm that the select lever operates normally at all ranges.

-          Move the select lever from P to D. Check that the detents can be felt in each range. If the detents cannot be felt or the position pointer (dash indicator) is improperly aligned, re-adjust the cable.

-          Check if the start motor rotates when the select lever is set to the P range.

-          Check that the back-up light illuminates when the select lever is in the R range.

-          Check the parking lock operation when the select lever is in the P range.

9. Using the Subaru Select Monitor, clear all DTCs stored in memory. If the codes return after the correct adjustments, refer to the diagnostic procedure found in the applicable Subaru service manual.