Car Won’t Shift Out of Park: Troubleshooting Guide

Car won’t shift out of park: How to diagnose and fix this yourself

Finding your car stuck in Park can be frustrating, especially when you’re in a hurry. This problem is typically related to the shift interlock system, which is designed to prevent the car from being shifted out of Park without pressing the brake pedal. Here are some common reasons why this might happen and steps you can take to resolve it.

The Most Common Causes of Shift Interlock Failure

If your car won’t shift out of park, chance are the shift interlock solenoid isn’t working

• Brake Light Switch Failure— The brake light switch must be depressed before the shift interlock solenoid will allow you to shift out of park. The shift interlock solenoid receives its power from the brake light switch. So, a faulty or mis-adjusted brake light switch can cause this problem.
• A blown fuse— A blown fuse can disrupt the electrical components, including the shift interlock system. Checking and replacing a blown fuse can often resolve the issue.
• Faulty shift interlock solenoid failure— The shift interlock solenoid, located in the center console, controls the locking mechanism. If this solenoid fails, it can prevent the shifter from moving out of Park.
• Ignition Switch Issues— Problems with the ignition switch can also affect the shift interlock system. If the ignition switch is not functioning correctly, it may not send the proper signals to release the shifter.
• Parking on an Incline— Parking on a steep incline without using the parking brake can cause the transmission to lock up, making it difficult to shift out of Park. This is due to the weight of the car pressing against the transmission’s locking mechanism.

Steps to Fix the Problem

• Apply the brakes and see if your brake lights are on— Your brake lights should come on any time you press the brake pedal. If they don’t work, check the condition and adjustment of the brake pedal switch located near the top of the brake pedal arm.

• Examine the Fuses— Locate your car’s fuse box and check for any blown fuses related tothe shift interlock system. Replace any faulty fuses.

• Use the Shift Lock Release— All vehicles have a mechanical emergency shift lock release mechanism. It’s usually covered with a detachable trim piece. Consult your owner’s manual for instructions on manually overriding the shift interlock feature to get your car to shift out of park.

Some vehicles don’t use the brake light switch to operate the interlock solenoid. In those cases, they mount a micro switch to the brake pedal

In

Remove the plastic trim piece and use your car key to manually release the shift lock mechanism

Locate the emergency shift lock override. It’s usually a plastic snap-in trim piece. In other vehicles, you insert your car key into a special slot near the shifter, and the key pushes the locking mechanism open.

©, 2015 Rick Muscoplat