Trax clutch pedal switch issue

Sounds frustrating! A bad clutch switch can definitely cause those symptoms. It's like the car doesn't know when the clutch is engaged, so it throws errors and disables features that rely on that input. The fact that it sometimes won't start points even more strongly to that. Have you checked the connections yourself? Sometimes a loose or corroded connector is all it takes. Think of it like a loose wire on a Christmas tree – one bad connection can kill the whole string of lights. Before you start replacing parts, I would suggest to get an OBD2 scanner and erase all the existing error codes, drive around for a while and see which ones come back again. This would give you a clearer picture and prevent chasing ghosts.

Thanks! I appreciate the Christmas tree analogy. If I clear the error codes, which specific codes would definitively point to the clutch pedal switch?

It's tough to say exactly which codes definitively mean it's the clutch switch, as it depends on the specific diagnostic system in your Trax. However, you're likely looking for codes related to 'clutch position sensor circuit', 'clutch switch malfunction', or anything that indicates an open or short circuit in that system. If you see codes related to cruise control or starting issues showing up at the same time, that further supports the clutch switch being the culprit. Given the symptoms and your initial diagnostic hunch, and if you're not comfortable troubleshooting the wiring yourself, it might be worth having a trusted mechanic take a look. They can test the switch directly and trace the wiring harness for damage.

I appreciate your guidance. Following your advice and a diagnostic check at a certified workshop, the issue was indeed identified as a defective clutch pedal switch and a loose connector. The repair, including parts and labor, amounted to 95€. Thank you again for your assistance.