[LittleHoov]

Well, there is a switch connected to the brake pedal that controls the buttons ability to be pushed in. I cant remember its exact location, but I believe it would be underneath that carpet above the brake pedal somewhere, might be something to investigate if your a DIY kind of person.

Also for another temporary fix try this, turn the key to the ACC position. On my car that allows the button to be pushed in without touching the brake pedal, so that might be a temporary solution for you.

As for that SES light, do you know whats causing it? It could very well have something to do with the transmission problems youre describing. Whip into any major auto parts store and they should pull the code for you free of charge, better yet ask if you can borrow the equipment and run out and do it yourself. You learn a thing or two in the process, plus you dont have to deal with them trying to make a sale off of the information they pull, as many will try to do.