My wife's 2004 5 speed hatchback sometimes will not start (starter will not even engage) unless you put it in gear and hold the shifter all the way in gear. Today when she stopped @ the gas station it wouldn't start and even this didn't work. While on the way to rescue her I had her hold the key on while she moved the shifter around (slammed around would probably be a better term) and it started. I'm assuming it's a sort of safety switch that needs adjustment or replacement but need to know the name and how to adjust or replace to repair.

Any help would be awsome

Thanks
Dave