I've recently gone on a mad search for answers to my transmission problems (much more complicated), but know this one all to well. First off, while sitting in the driver's seat, put your key in the ignition. Turn the key to the "ON" position without starting the car. Now. With your hand on the shifter, FEEL and listen for a light "click" as you push the BRAKE pedal.
IF a click IS heard/felt, this means your safety interlock is working correctly, and that the button in your shifter is not disengaging the lock down inside the shifter housing. This USUALLY results from being FORCED out of park WITHOUT depressing the brake pedal (not disengaging the interlock), thus, shearing off a small pin in the shifter shaft, that lifts the inner lock. (Not easy to fix. But easy to replace)
IF a click IS NOT heard or felt, first make sure that the small button switch located at the top of the brake pedal, is in place, properly adjusted, and plugged in. Double check fuses. Disassemble shifter housing, and test for 12volts at the interlock solenoid when brake pedal is pressed. Check for 12v at brake pedal switch. If both are present, check the park-position switch for positioning or nearby damage.
Based on the indicator showing that you're in second gear. I'd strongly go with the shifter having been forced out of park. Damaging the shift lock pin and associated parts, including where the linkage for your indicator is located. When you push the release button on the shifter, in and out repeatedly. You should see a small pin near the bottom of the shifter shaft the moves up and down with each button press. If this doesn't happen. The pin is most likely half missing.
Thursday, July 9th, 2020 AT 12:15 PM
(Merged)