GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Generic 🢒 2005 🢒 Unit Repair 🢒 Service and Appearance Care 🢒 Checking Things Under the Hood 🢒 Shifting Out of Park

Shifting Out of Park Automatic Transaxle

The automatic transaxle shift lock control system locks the shift lever in PARK when the ignition is in OFF. In addition, you have to fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition is in ON. See Automatic Transaxle Operation .

If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever and push the shift lever all the way into PARK (P) as you maintain brake application. Then move the shift lever into the gear you want.

If you hold the brake pedal down but still cannot shift out of PARK (P), try this:

  1. Turn the ignition to ACC. There is no shift interlock in this key position.
  2. Apply and hold the brake until the end of Step 4.
  3. Shift the transaxle to NEUTRAL (N).
  4. Start the vehicle and then shift to the gear you want.
  5. Have the system fixed as soon as possible.

Automatic Transaxle Shift Lock

This vehicle has an electronic shift lock release system. The shift lock release is designed to:

    • Prevent ignition key removal unless the shift lever is in PARK (P)
    • Prevent movement of the shift lever out of PARK (P) unless the ignition is in a position other than OFF.

The shift lock is always functional except in the case of a an uncharged or low voltage (less than 9 volt) battery.

If your vehicle has an uncharged battery or a battery with low voltage, try charging or jump starting the battery. See Jump Starting .

Console Shift

If your console shift cannot be moved out of PARK (P)

  1. Apply and maintain the regular brakes.
  2. Turn the ignition to the ACESSORY or RUN position. See Ignition Positions for more information.
  3. Let up on the shift lever and make sure the shift lever is pushed all the way into PARK (P).
  4. Then, move the shift into the desired gear.

If you still cannot move the shift lever from PARK (P), consult your dealer or a professional towing service.

Column Shift

If your park lock cable cannot be moved out of PARK (P)

  1. Apply and maintain the regular brakes.
  2. Turn the ignition key to the ACCESSORY or RUN position. See Ignition Positions for more information.
  3. Shift out of the PARK (P) position to the NEUTRAL (N) position.
  4. Move the vehicle to a safe location.

If you still cannot move the shift lever from PARK (P), consult your dealer or a professional towing service.