What is a neutral safety switch?

Question

Was it a Sort of anti theft device?

Answer 1

Neutral Safety Switch

This switch opens (denies current to) the starter circuit when the transmission is in any gear but Neutral or Park on automatic transmissions. This switch is normally connected to the transmission linkage or directly on the transmission.

It never was an anti-theft device just for safety.  Hence the name "Neutral Safety Switch"

Answer 2

h**l how really knows, I think it's to keep a kid from jumping into the car and just turning the key on and hauling ***.I really think it's there so when you need to start your car and leave it running ,it wont just take off.

Answer 3

Good guess but no, it is a safety device, keeps the vehicle from starting unless the transmission is in neutral or park.