Your shift interlock feature, which
requires you to step on the brake pedal to prevent unintentionally
shifting out of Park, could be malfunctioning. Alternatively, the shift
cable or linkage connected to the shift lever could be gummed up with
grease or corroded so that it can’t operate freely.
If the interlock switch is worn and not
fully releasing, or the brake lights don’t receive a signal from the
brake light switch to illuminate, you won’t be able to shift out of
Park.
Grease, dirt and moisture can collect in
or on the interlock and brake light switches, and on the shift cable and
related parts, hampering their operation. When that happens, you’re
most likely to have problems shifting out of Park when the engine and
transmission are cold, such as after the car has sat for hours. After
the engine gets warm — and other parts get warmer, as well — the goo
might become softer and make it easier to shift out of Park.
