2004 Mazda 6 Car will not go into gear on a hot day?

DAVISPETER

MEMBER
2004 MAZDA 6
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
50,000 MILES

Hi there, I have a 2004 mazda 6 v6.
The problem is: On a hot day (usually with a temp over 95 degrees) my car will not shift past the lock position on the automatic transmission.
It takes me several attempts to get the car into gear and then it works fine, sometimes it can take 1 - 2 minutes to get it into gear.
The brake lights work fine and turning the key to the first position and shifting into neutral does not make a difference.
So it cannot be the brake light switch can it?
Im really lost with this one and reluctant to take the car to the dealership.
Anyone with an advice at all I would be very gratefull.
Thanks

1 Reply

KHLOW2008

MECHANIC
41,814 POSTS

Hi davispeter,

Since problem is related to temperature, I would suspect the shift solenoid to be the cause rather than the brake switch.

With ignition switch turned ON, depress the brakes and listen for a clicking noise near gear shift. If there is a click and shift is unable to shift out, the solenoid is the cause.

If manually overiding the interlock works, you need to check the interlock solenoid for sticking.