Cannot shift into Park - problem with lock-release button

[Todd64]

I have a 2001 626 with automatic transmission.

It's a long story, but the lock-release button on the shift lever became disengaged. I was able to put it back together, but now I cannot shift into "Park." When I press the lock-release button, it seems that it is pressing in all the way and functioning properly, but the shift lever will not move to "Park."

The shift lever will move into all other gears just fine. So, as a substitute for shifting into "Park," I now have to shift into neutral and put the emergency brake on.

Also, because I cannot shift into "Park," I cannot turn the key to the LOCK position and remove it; I have to leave the key in the ACC position (hopefully this will not drain the battery too much!).

Normally I would take the car to my local Mazda dealer to fix this problem. But I am in post-Katrina New Orleans, and all local service shops are experiencing a severe shortage of technicians, so there is about a three-week wait for service.

I would be greatful for any advice or suggestions on how to fix the problem myself.

Thanks in advance for your help.

Todd