I have a 2002 Mazda Protege. This problem is only recent. When I turn the key, sometimes nothing happens. I figured out that if I hold the key turned and firmly pump the clutch it will eventually start. I looked under the dash for the switch that is closed when clutch is depressed(so the engine can't start without clutch depressed) but it appears that there is two switches and I'm not sure what to do. Not even sure it is the switch. Any ideas would be appreciated.

 

Sounds like the switch, just remove one and cross the wires to see if you can start it, if not try the second switch. You don't really need that switch anyways, its nicer to not have that stupid neutral-safety switch on the car, why do you think they don't install them in cars here in Europe? Makes it VERY easy to move a car using the starter if something happens also for instance if your fuel pump dies and your halfway blocking the street and your driveway is uphill........been there done that.

 

Thanks MazdaTirol. Gonna try to bypass the switch now. I'll report back with the results.

 

There is nothing wrong with the switch. Gonna remove the starter and have it tested. It's not the alternator or battery either. Any ideas?

 

Is there a way on these to bypass the ignition switch like older Fords? Jump the big relay on the fender sorta deal? If so you can test the starter that way (in neutral/park of course) and see if it really is the starter or something from the ignition switch forward.