Thinks it is in drive regardless of gear shift position

BAKKENA

MEMBER
2008 HONDA ACCORD
2WD
AUTOMATIC
160,000 MILES

The car has been doing this thing where when you turn the ignition the car doesn't try to turn over but the dash lights up. It also won't let me remove the key after trying to turn it on. The dash indicates that the car is in Drive instead of Park, even though the shifter is in park. We had to disconnect the battery to get the key out. I tried using a screwdriver in the gear lock slot so I could move the gear shift, but it doesn't change that the car thinks its in drive. When I moved it off of park the car did start rolling forward though. Does anyone have an idea why this might be happening?

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,885 POSTS

Welcome to 2CarPros.

If the shifter is actually changing it from park, then I suspect the transmission range sensor is bad. It is mounted on the transmission and is what signals the computer for the light indication. First, check it to make sure it isn't disconnected or loose. If you find it needs replaced, here are the directions. The attached pictures correlate with the directions.

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2005 Honda Accord L4-2.4L
Procedures
Vehicle Powertrain Management Sensors and Switches - Powertrain Management Sensors and Switches - Computers and Control Systems Transmission Position Sensor/Switch Service and Repair Procedures
PROCEDURES
Transmission Range Switch Replacement
1. Raise the vehicle, and make sure it is securely supported.
2. Shift to the N position.

Pic 1

3. Remove the transmission range switch cover.

Pic 2

4. Disconnect the transmission range switch connector.
5. Remove the transmission range switch, and replace the new switch.

Pic 3

6. Make sure the selector control shaft is in the N position. If necessary, move the shift lever to the N position.

NOTE: Do not use the selector control shaft to adjust the shift position. If the selector control shaft tips are squeezed together it will cause a faulty signal or position due to play between the selector control shaft and the switch.

Pic 4

7. Align the cutouts (A) on the rotary-frame with the neutral positioning cutouts (B) on the transmission range switch (C), then put a 2.0 mm (0.08 inch) feeler gauge blade (D) in the cutouts to hold the switch in the N position.

NOTE: Be sure to use a 2.0 mm (0.08 inch) blade or equivalent to hold the switch in the N position.

Pic 5

8. Install the transmission range switch (A) gently on the selector control shaft (B) with holding it in the N position with the 2.0 mm (0.08 inch) blade (C).

Pic 6

9. Tighten the bolts on the transmission range switch while you continue to hold the N position. Do not move the transmission range switch when tightening the bolts. Remove the feeler gauge.

Pic 7

10. Connect the connector securely, then install the transmission range switch cover (A).
11. Turn the ignition switch ON (II). Move the shift lever through all positions, and check the transmission range switch synchronization with the A/T gear position indicator.
12. Check that the engine will start in the P and N positions, and will not start in any other shift lever position.
13. Check that the back-up lights come on when the shift lever is in R position.
14. Allow the front wheels to rotate freely, then start the engine, and check the shift lever operation.

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Let me know if this helps.

Take care,
Joe

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