Q: shifter wont engage

asked by on May 28, 2016

I have an 96 olds cutlass ciera. I put into reverse and when I went to put into park the shifter was flopping around. I cant get out of reverse. I unplugged the battery so my back up lights wont drain the battery. help please.

pin was loose at base of shift lever. so I took out and put back in. no luck. same problem. cant seem to get shifter to engage and put back into park or drive or what have you.
My car has an automatic transmission.

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

How does the speedometer work?
Unless you’ve gone off the pavement and into the wild, you’re driving your car on a road with a speed limit. It’s important to follow those limits, not only because they’re the law, but because they help ensure your safety....
Fog lights staying on after jumpstart.
The fog lights are turned on and off at the switch and the body control module controls when they come on or go off. This is not common but you may have a short in the system that is keeping...
Motor oil.
Hello. It is definitely a good idea to use synthetic oil in your engine. Synthetic oil will work better with the design of your engine and will keep the variable valve timing system working as good as possible. Using a...
Rough idle with DTC P0171, engine stalls unless MAF sensor is unplugged - 2007 Volvo S40 2.4i
Your mass air sensor has most likely gone bad and/or is not giving correct data to the computer. Replace the sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/mass-airflow-sensor-replacement), clear the codes, and retest this.
Maintenance
You should mainly do the oil and filter (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/change-oil-and-filter) change. The rest of the maintenance is as needed when inspections are done. Some examples of other components that need to be maintained include: air filters (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/air-filter-replacement), wiper blades (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/windshield-wiper-blade-replacement), lights...
Occasionally see "service charging system" on the DIC. What might be the problem?
This may be a sign of a weak battery, a failing voltage regulator or failing alternator. As you know, if the belt is loose and enough torque is supplied, this may cause the belt to slip slightly causing the alternator...
I just bought a 2006 Chrysler pacifica seems to have wiring issue and miles tripped over 100,000 miles.
For all of the electrical issues with your vehicle either there is a loose ground wire from the chassis to the frame or the ECM (computer) has malfunctioned and needs flashed or replaced. I recommend seeking out a professional, such...
How much does it cost to replace a brake booster
One of the most common causes of the brake pedal going to the floor is a loss of brake fluid. Generally, this is easy to detect due to the fact that there is usually brake fluid leaking on the ground...
Can the positive battery cable be replaced on a 2007 honda civic lx? Was told to replace entire wiring harness, doesn't make sense
The battery cable (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/battery-cable-replacement) can in fact be replaced by itself rather than replacing the entire wiring harness. I would suggest having a professional from YourMechanic come to your location to take a look at the vehicle to diagnose and...

Related articles

How Does a Transmission Filter Work?
The The transmission plays a hugely important role in how your vehicle functions. It's connected to the rear portion of your engine and transfers power from the engine to the wheels. Without a transmission, a vehicle simply cannot move. The...
5 Signs Your Car Isn't Shifting Correctly
Improper shifting is a sign of car transmission problems. The solution might be simple or complex, but get it inspected to avoid expensive repairs.
How to Buy a Good Quality Shifter Boot
Your Your shift boot is an important part in your car that is attached to our gear stick. This is what you use to shift gears, and it works as a great way to cover the gear assembly. It takes...