Hello to all,

I had an odd scare about a week ago. I had just came home to pick up something and take off quickly to handle the duty and then after starrting up the engine I noticed I couldn't shift outta Park unless I hit the over-ride buttom. This is from my 89' Camry. Very scary thing to come across. After driving for a while the issue seems to dissapear. From another thread regarding stop lamps/light someone had the same issue but nothing was mentioned afterwards.:screwy:

Is this just a rare occurance or should I be worried and get it fixed right away???

rimfire,22

Check your brake light switch.

Check your brake light switch.


DFBonnett,

Thanks for the info . Can you explain why the switch might be the culprit???

About two years ago I had an issue with my stop lamps shorting out even after replacing the bulbs. It tuned out the socket had shorted out. It was pretty easy to replace.

rimfire,22

If it is like my Crapillac, the brake light switch also activates a solenoid which allows the shift lever to move. The switch is up under the dash and is activated by the brake pedal arm. It may just be out of adjustment, loose, or may have failed.

If it is like my Crapillac, the brake light switch also activates a solenoid which allows the shift lever to move. The switch is up under the dash and is activated by the brake pedal arm. It may just be out of adjustment, loose, or may have failed.


DFBonnett,

Thanks for the info. Now I understand. I wonder if I can change it myself with little effort.:screwy:

rimfire,22

You can change it, the part is available through your auto parts store, but it ain't exactly easy. You're under the dash in the footwell and it's dark w/o a light...but at least you're not getting all grimy and greasy. Good luck!

You can change it, the part is available through your auto parts store, but it ain't exactly easy. You're under the dash in the footwell and it's dark w/o a light...but at least you're not getting all grimy and greasy. Good luck!


jdmccright,

Thanks for the info. I'm planning to look into swapping out my shocks in the near future so perhaps I'll ask them to do the dirty.

Thanks again,

rimfire,22

I'd much rather wrestle with a little brake switch under my dash than a big strut...just takes time, patience, and the right tools (as always).