Q: Car turns on but shifter shuts off and car won't move.

asked by on October 10, 2017

I have a 535i from 2008. When I turn the ignition on all functions of car work however as soon as I actually turn on the car the shifter shuts off and doesn't allow car to move.

My car has 122000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Shift Interlock Solenoid Replacement $118.69 - $1255.66 Get a Quote

What you are describing is likely an electrical fault involving the safety shift interlock. This problem can be diagnosed and resolved on a mobile basis, right at your location, if you request a transmission shift interlock diagnostic/repair. To temporarily resolve it, you can try the following: look for a small access panel right at the "D" mark. Lift that panel firmly which will reveal a mechanism beneath. Examine the underside of the cover and the inside of the mechanism for any foreign matter. The transmission can get stuck in park because the interlock that prevents the shifter from moving out of park when the brake is pressed becomes stuck in place with sticky soda or coffee. After cleaning the mechanism, press the brake and try moving the shifter out of park. If that doesn’t work, look for a small cam on the right side of the shift lever. Lift the cam up with the screwdriver to release the interlock. While lifting the cam, press the brake and move the shifter to neutral or drive. If none of these procedures work, simply request the transmission shift interlock diagnostic/repair and the responding certified mechanic will get this taken care of for you promptly. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic as we are always here to help you.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Lost power steering on the road, what happened?
If this was my car I would not drive it till it was fixed and would not recommend you do either. I checked into this problem and there are other owners with same or very similar complaints as you. There...
Speakers have no sound
Hi there. Since your vehicle is equipped with premium sound, it has a separate amplifier powering the speakers. If this amplifier does not receive a signal to turn on, it will not power your speakers. Also, if your amplifier has...
Spongy brakes after replacing rear discs, pads and refurbing rear calipers. Bled so many times to no avail!
All four wheels have to be bled starting with the right rear, then left rear, right front, and left front. Inasmuch as air may be trapped as much as 10 feet from the bleeder screw, you have to have a...
When I turn the ac on it makes a very loud squeal that stops after a few minutes. 2007 Jeep Commander
Hi there - It's possible that the tensioner/idler pulley for the serpentine belt (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-serpentine-drive-belt0, which drives both the AC and alternator, is weak, or the serpentine belt is stretched, allowing the belt to slip (and squeal). It is also possible...
Cold weather starting problem
As a general rule, car engines do not like cold weather and do not do operate as well in cold weather. When you start your car in the morning and turn the key to on, the coolant temperature sensor immediately...
Hi my Mercedes Benz gl450 2007 airmatic leans a bit more on the driver side left front and a bit front the rear.
Hi there. Check the plumbing to the air shocks system on the driver side and see if there is a leak. You may have to spray the lines down with water and soap to see the leaks as the mixture...
Check engine light on, engine knocking, loss of power, and coolant leaking.
Hi there. Grab a flashlight and look under the vehicle for where the coolant leak is coming from. Either there is a gasket, hose, or freeze plug that is leaking causing the coolant to leak or the engine has cracked....
what type of oil should I use for my 2017 Chrysler 200s
Your engine requires 0w20 oil. You should always follow the recommended oil that is printed on the oil cap of the engine and in the owner's operator manual.

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 BMW Z4
BMW’s BMW’s entry in the hardtop roadster segment, the Z4 delivers the ideal combination of performance, looks, and standard comfort features. This two seater is not only classically stylish and heavy on extras that aren’t, well, extra, it’s also the...
A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 BMW 5-Series
BMW BMW has built a reputation for refined engineering, powerful performance and excellent fit and function. That’s exactly what you’ll find with the 2012 BMW 5-Series sedans. Composed and powerful, they provide a range of price points, features and capabilities...
The Best Used Cars to Buy if You Live Close to the Ocean
If If you live close to the ocean, your vehicle is going to be far more vulnerable to rust than if you lived further inland. And the fact is, when it comes to resisting rust, not all vehicles are created...