1994 Nissan Maxima GXE - Will not go into P

[chm]

I just purchased a 1994 Nissan Maxima GXE. The car was towed a month before I bought it. Now, it will not go into P. Is it the tranny or something lockshift? Any help would be appreciated!

Thanks. . . . .

[Nahkapohjola]

Originally Posted by chm

I just purchased a 1994 Nissan Maxima GXE. The car was towed a month before I bought it. Now, it will not go into P. Is it the tranny or something lockshift? Any help would be appreciated!

Thanks. . . . .

- What did happen between "just-monthbefore"?
- What gears function ok?

On possibility could be the gearshift adjustment or worn bushings. Open hood, at right is gearbox. Take somebody inside the car [engine off] to move the selector back an forth. Now you must be able to see the selector back down at the gearbox. Help/push it with hand or smtg as the other person tries to put at P. If its just loose cable, it will lock (go to P) via this outsider help...
Bushings are cheap to change. Also selector itself might be mechanically jammed, open panels to peek inside.

[chm]

i tried what u told me but after i loosed the cable that small shiffter is working but the cable doesn't go back what u think its the problem bcs i can't take the key out i tried to push the cable but didin't go back please if u have any idea let me know thanks for ur help

[Nahkapohjola]

Originally Posted by chm

i tried what u told me but after i loosed the cable that small shiffter is working but the cable doesn't go back what u think its the problem bcs i can't take the key out i tried to push the cable but didin't go back please if u have any idea let me know thanks for ur help

Cable worn, jammed? If cable broken, replace. I think (referring to other stories) that both end bushings tend to wear, the other end is above the cat shield. Shield off, change bushing if worn - easy they tell.

Could be also something loose near/in the shifter mechanism inside cabin. Take the shifter panel out and see that no loose parts blocking it its travel.

Panel comes out by lifting it with a screwdriver from its rear end [nearest to handbrake]. Take it out and check that the movement is free.
Of course the shifter has that release knob for P, that could be loose/broken and now doesn't free allow movement.