Originally Posted by no9t9
sorry, that's not true. in all cars nowadays, there is a relay wired up to the clutch that prevents the car from starting if the clutch is not depressed regardless of what gear it is in.
OK, you didn't understand what I said.
The clutch safety switch is located on a bracket above the clutch pedal and must be released or depressed, depending on car model and manufaturer, to start the car on late 80's and newer vehicles. That's a given.
What I'm saying is that with the clutch pedal pushed in, and the car in neutral, the car will start even if the clutch is not disengaging. If you where dim enough to start it in gear, the car will lurch forward and stall out.
Thus, his car should start even if he's having problems with the clutch, because it's the pedal that controls the ignition lock-out.
Follow?