SYMPTOMS OF A BAD SHIFT INTERLOCK SOLENOID

PURPOSE

The purpose of the shift interlock solenoid is to allow the driver to move out of the park position. This can only happen when the ignition is on and the brake pedal is depressed. 

location

The location will depend on where your gear selector is. It will either be on the steering column or underneath the center console. 

Symptoms

stuck in park

The first and only symptom of a bad shift interlock solenoid is stuck in the park position. You'll be pressing down on the brakes, trying to move the gear selector from park to reverse, but there's no movement. This tends to happen if the solenoid is stuck in the lock position preventing you from moving out of the park position.

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If you are stranded and need to get your car on the road, most cars have a shift lock override where you remove the cover and either press down or turn it with a flathead screwdriver to be able to shift out of the park.

Before concluding you have a bad shift interlock solenoid, make sure to check that your fuses are good. If they are, make sure to check the brake light switch article as this can cause a similar symptom.

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If you concluded that your shift interlock solenoid needs to be replaced and you want to do it yourself, I would recommend getting a repair manual here. You can use code “AD10VA” for 15% off one-year subscriptions for any US Order.

You can also buy a new shift interlock solenoid here.

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