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DTC codes / Jaguar codes / P1517

P1517 · JaguarCranking Neutral Drive Fault

P1517 on a Jaguar means the engine control module (ECM) has detected an implausible signal from the cranking neutral drive circuit, which tells the module whether the transmission is in Park or Neutral during engine cranking. The ECM expects a specific voltage or state from the neutral safety switch or its wiring when the key is turned to start, and it flags this code when that expected state is not seen.

SystemPowertrain
Code typeJaguar specific
SeverityMedium
Fix difficultyIntermediate
AreaVehicle speed, idle control and auxiliary inputs

Symptoms you may notice

  • The engine may crank but fail to start, or start only after several attempts.
  • The starter may not engage at all when the gear selector is in Park or Neutral.
  • The warning light (check engine or transmission fault) illuminates on the instrument cluster.
  • The gear position indicator may be blank or show the wrong gear.
  • In some cases, the car may start in gear, creating a safety risk.
  • Often no symptoms besides the warning light, especially if the fault is intermittent.

Common causes, most likely first

  1. Faulty neutral safety switch (also called the transmission range sensor) on the gearbox.
  2. Corroded, damaged, or loose wiring or connector at the neutral safety switch or ECM.
  3. Misadjusted gear selector cable or linkage, preventing the switch from reaching the correct position.
  4. Failed or sticking starter relay that back-feeds the neutral circuit.
  5. Internal fault in the ECM or transmission control module (TCM) affecting the signal interpretation.
  6. Water ingress or oil contamination at the switch connector, common on older Jaguar models.

How to diagnose and fix it

  1. Connect a diagnostic scanner and read all stored codes in the ECM and TCM to confirm P1517 is current and not a ghost code.
  2. Inspect the neutral safety switch connector and wiring for corrosion, chafing, or loose pins; clean and repair as needed.
  3. Check the gear selector cable adjustment and ensure the switch aligns with Park and Neutral positions.
  4. Test the neutral safety switch with a multimeter for continuity and correct voltage signals in each gear position.
  5. Verify the starter relay and its wiring for back-feeding or intermittent operation.
  6. If the switch tests faulty, replace it and clear the code; then perform a road test to confirm no return.
  7. If all external components check out, diagnose the ECM/TCM signal circuit for shorts or opens, and consider module reprogramming or replacement as a last resort.

Neutral switch faults that mimic starter failure

  • A misadjusted gear selector cable is a frequent culprit that is often overlooked because the switch itself tests fine on the bench.
  • The code can set intermittently due to a poor ground at the transmission, causing the ECM to see a floating voltage only during cranking.
  • On some Jaguar models, the neutral safety switch is integrated into the transmission range sensor, so a transmission fault code may accompany P1517.
  • A weak battery or voltage drop during cranking can cause the ECM to misinterpret the neutral signal, setting P1517 without a real switch fault.
  • After replacing the switch, the ECM may require a relearn procedure or adaptation reset to clear the code permanently.

Can I keep driving with P1517?

If the car starts and drives normally, you can drive it to a workshop, but avoid turning the engine off in an unsafe location until the fault is repaired. If the engine will not crank or the car starts in gear, do not drive it and have it towed.

Tools that help

Tools we recommend are in the Auto Veteran shop on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Guidance is general and written for Jaguar vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.

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