Flashing D on selector - is it safe to use

[John579]

Hi, I have a 2004 XK8 4.2 coupe,
I have two questions- the sport button is not working and also the gear selector D (and others) indicator flashing, I have done some web surfing and it looks like it’s probably the linear switch.... do you think this is the case?
Also is it ok to still use the car and will the gearbox still perform until I can look into cleaning or replacing the switch?
Thank you

[mike020150]

You are probably right about the linear switch. Whilst it's unlikely to do any immediate damage, any fault which 'confuses' the car about which gear it is in, risks suddenly putting the car into limp home mode, something which could cause issues on the road. It would be as well to resolve the problem quickly to avoid such incidents. Mike.

[John579]

Up date — couldn’t remove the linear switch but just managed to take off cover enough to get a cotton bud in with Allsop cleaner into both tracks and under electrical contacts..... and so far all works.... no flashing & sports button now lights up.... Big thank you to YouTuber Granblogismo... and Mike