360 won't start - stuck in first gear due to back latch malfunction

Can you post the photo of the warning light? I am pretty sure that not latch opened but F1 warning light comes on ...

 

"Looked OK" is not a real test. You need to do a continuity check with a meter.

 

I don't have an F1 car, but on the wiring diagram for the 360, the rear latch microswitch is marked L14. It has a black wire and a black/pink wire. If I were to suspect the switch, I would unplug it at L14 and temporarily replace it with a jumper wire. If that allows the car to start, I would then replace the microswitch.

If the car does not start with the jumper in place, it gets more complicated and you have to break the DVM and check for continuity, especially the ground end of the connector (black wire).

This is all assuming it is the rear hatch that is preventing the car from starting.

 

^^^This.

Except my recollection is that the car will start with the back latch "open", but the F1 system (if fitted) will be very wonky. But things may have changed through the years. I'd bypass the switch first before anything else.

 

Usually, I believe an open rear hatch (or faulty rear latch switch as you suspect) will not prevent car from starting, but cause F1 to go to neutral and not wanting to shift into gear. Are you sure that symbol is for open rear latch? Maybe something else is wrong.

 

Its not your latch its the f1 transmission light. You can confirm this by looking in your manual or online.

You need to check all f1 fuses and ensure your pump is activating by the sound.

 

I'm having the same issue on my 99 F355. Tried bypassing the switch, it didn't work, what's next to check? Thanks in advance

 

I think the symbol you are seeing is for the F1 system. It looks similar to the one for engine lid open. Flashing indicates low system pressure. The car won't start unless it's in neutral. If it's actually "stuck in gear", there could be a few reasons. Battery could be weak, F1 relay or pump might have failed. Possibly fluid level is low.
I never recommend leaving an F1 car parked in gear if you can avoid it. If the handbrake works, use it.

 

The rear deck lid switch is open circuit when the lid is closed (at least on the F355). A jumper wire will not work. Disconnecting the plug (or wires?) attached to the switch will simulate deck lid closed. As previously stated, the warning light does not show the rear deck lid, it shows a gear lever on a console.