Shifting Out of Park Automatic Transaxle

An automatic transaxle vehicle has an automatic transaxle shift lock control system which locks the shift lever in PARK (P) when the ignition is in LOCK. You have to fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition is turned to ON. See Automatic Transaxle Operation .

If you cannot shift out of PARK (P) while holding the brake pedal down, try this:

1. Set the parking brake.
2. Turn the ignition off and remove the key.
3. Pry off the cover over the shift-lock release slot using a small, flat object. The shift-lock release slot is located at the top of the shift lever.




Insert the key into the shift-lock release slot and press and hold the key.

4. Shift to NEUTRAL (N).
5. Remove the key from the shift-lock release slot, insert the key into the ignition and start the engine.
6. Replace the shift-lock release slot cover.
7. Apply and hold the regular brake fully and release the parking brake.
8. Shift to the gear you want.
9. Have the system fixed as soon as you can.