lock shift out of park

[dakotaisthedog]

I have a 97 Grand Prix that I can't get out of park unless I push the shift lock button down. I've been driving this way for 4-5 days now and once my key did not turn back all the way. I know how to do all the manual overrides to get the key out and the shift out of park. But I'm looking for a permanent fix. This is not an intermittent problem. It's always the same.

I've been reading through some old forums to get some info, but I don't really see any solid answers.

I've checked fuses. That's about as far as I've taken it so far.

I've heard something about a solenoid and a transaxle range switch. Are these relevant to this problem??

I would really appreciate anybody's help on this!

Thanks,
Bryan

[BIG-L]

There is a Shift Lock Solenoid under the console that and it has a tendency of either going bad or what happened to me,a wire came lose on the solenoid.Once fixed it will go into gear and also release the key.Mine has been fine for over a year.Nock on wood.

~Larry~

[dakotaisthedog]

Larry, I appreciate your input. Sounds like that's right on track.

I took apart the top of the console and I see a black electrical gadget right underneath the shifter. I'm assuming that must be the solenoid you are talking about. Looks like a bugger to get to, if even possible to replace.

I looked at autozone.com and advanceautopart and I don't see a part like that listed. ??

Guess I'm out of luck on getting it fixed the correct way???? I don't know.

The only thing I know to do is to tie down the manual shift lock mechanism so the shifter never locks. But I hate to mickey mouse stuff like that.

Let me know what you think. Thanks!

Bryan

[BIG-L]

Might also make sure the connector is tight and clean,no carbon track's on contacts,also reomve the connector and check for voltage with the key on.You get voltage from the ignition harness.If you have no voltage then it maybe the ignition harness.Only thing that suck's,is that you cant just replace the solenoid,it is part of the shifter (Thanks GM).You should be able to get a shifter from a salvage yard or off ebay or from ED Morad [email protected] at a reasonable price.He has a boat load of 97/03 GP parts.Just tell him what your looking for.

Good Luck!




~Larry~