VMTP NEWS

You will all probably be aware of the Neutral Solenoid fitted to late Vauxhalls. This function works via the brake light switch under the brake pedal.

The idea is that when the brakes are applied, a signal is sent to the Neutral Solenoid, and this disengages drive. When the brakes are released the signal is sent to the Neutral Solenoid and drive is applied.

We recently had a 1999 model Vauxhall Astra brought in. The complaint was loss of drive when stationary, and when the accelerator was applied drive came back with a bang!

After checking all the obvious - Neutral Solenoid, Valve Body, Throttle Position Sensor and the wiring between the ECU and the transmission - we were running out of ideas. However, we had noticed that the brake lights were not working, so just out of interest we decided to fit new bulbs. To all of our amazement the transmission was now working correctly.

If you get any Vauxhalls with a complaint of loss of drive and harsh engagement, check the brake lights before you start looking at the transmission, it could save you a lot of time.