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New member with question about unable to get shifter into PARK

Z

Zion

New member
Hi all, working on problem on 97 Pontiac Grand Prix that my daughter used to drive. I cannot get the console shifter to move into the PARK position and so the key cannot be turned fully off and removed. Pretty sure this is also killing the battery since the ignition is still partly on.
Other reading talks about the manual shift release via a hole on top of console and maybe a brake pedal switch or fuse being involved. I opened up the console to expose the shifter mechanism. Tried that switch actuator several times but still won't work.....by the way, the battery is dead while trying this. That switch has a 5 wire connector on it. Wish I knew if there is a mechanical cause via that cable or rod that goes from the shifter through the forward area and out and under the body.......or a dependent electrical function that is not occurring due to a faulty switch, etc.

it is possible to shift into any of the other positions as well as drive the car...just has to be left in neutral and set parking brake and key cannot be removed when you stop the car.

Any help appreciated!
 


the shiftier seems to have taken a crap, a junk yard replacement maybe the best route. unless you can figure out mechanically whats hold it up for going into park. could have some thing to do with the release button on the top of the handle.
 
I had this issue once. There should be a manual release under the steering wheel that should allow you to get it into park. I can't remember exactly how to get it to work but its a hole around the size of a pencil that you can stick a pencil or screwdrivier into and it should at least allow you to get your key out.
 
Well I've determined there is nothing wrong with the "shifter" per say....it's related to the ignition switch. Also you must have good battery charge to activate the solenoid in the shift lock mechanism...popping out the little plastic cap beneath the ign switch and pushing up with a small screwdriver. Releases the key plus shift lever then too works fine until you try to put the key all the way off.
Not exactly sure of the chain of events for normal function but possibly he ign switch or related linkage is the answer...hope someone can shed a bit more light on this. Thanks!
 
As I said, I've proven the problem is not really in the shifter and you can see that solenoid is moving properly...not sure if there is a solenoid at the ign switch...as I said, I did get the key to release using that access hole below the switch...just not sure why that hangs up....
 


see if this helps you out some.


the key release under the steering wheel, you can cut a piece of vac tubing and put it in there, then put the cover/cap back on to hold it in place. its a good temp fix.
 
Thanks much....I did discover that YouTube video a couple days ago but it just gives that as a temp fix but not a total solution.
I appreciate the time and help you are contribuing...best regards.
 
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