Q: Transmission stuck in park

asked by on August 01, 2016

The transmission in my car wouldn't shift out park on several occasions, for which I went to the dealership multiple times. This started happening about a month ago. At the dealership, they had the gear shift mechanism replaced. However, the problem occurred again despite that. What could be problem?

Car does not shift from park to drive Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

In order to shift out of park, the transmission module needs to see the engine idling and the brake pedal depressed. If one of these criteria is not met, then it will not let you shift out of park. There may be a problem with the interlock again even though it was changed. I recommend having them check it again to see if it happens again. Make sure you are pushing the brake in far enough to cause the brake lights to be engaged. If you would rather have this looked at by another professional mechanic, one from YourMechanic can come to your car’s location to diagnose your car’s shifting issue and assist you with repairs.

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

What is reverse lockout on the manual transmission?
Manual transmissions have come a long way in recent years and now offer a number of features designed for both convenience and safety. The reverse lockout feature on your car’s transmission is a perfect example. Essentially, this is a setup...
Smoke coming out of tailpipe
If the smoke is white, you're burning coolant, if the smoke is blue, you're burning oil, if the smoke is black, you're running rich (too much gas). A qualified technician, like one from YourMechanic, can help you identify the problem...
First day of ownership car has ticking noise - 2008 BMW 528xi
If the car is a certified pre-owned and is still under warranty (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-to-use-your-car-warranty-successfully-by-patrick-haas) when the complaint was logged BMW should still still cover this concern. The 6 cylinder engines have had challenges with the HVA (hydraulic valve actuators or lifters)....
check engine light 2013 Dodge Grand Caravan
A failed positive crankcase ventilation valve may cause an abnormal situation inside the engine that may trigger a response from one or more of the sensors. The best thing to do would be to have the vehicle read and the...
I need a mechanic that specializes in mini coopers
Hi...mechanics are qualified based on vehicle technology and systems, not "models" and so any of the certified mechanics will be able to help you. Hypothetically, even a mechanic who thought he "specialized" in a particular model still must consult and...
I badly need a engine mount but I'm trying to order one online but it's asking me which one I have a 2003 Nissan Sentra 1.8 gaze i
Hello, thank you for writing in. The engine will have several mounts. You need to determine if you have to replace all of them, or if you are just replacing one. Most of the time if one is going out,...
leaking fluid all over driver rear tire
There are only three sources of fluid at that wheel position: the shock, the brake tubing, and the differential/axle. An inspection would reveal which one is at issue. If the differential were the source of the fluid leak, a huge...

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2011 BMW X6 ActiveHybrid
This This “Sports Activity Vehicle” – a moniker bestowed by its maker – is one of those few cars that toes the line between SUV, hatchback sedan, and a just plain quirky car. Regardless of its true identity, however, the...
How to Buy a Good Quality Drivetrain
Drivetrains include the transmission, driveshaft, and axles. Buy an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) drivetrain with a drivetrain warranty.
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Transmission Oil Pressure Switch
Common signs include the vehicle entering "limp" mode, having difficulty shifting, and its engine RPM being higher than it should be.