GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Shifting Out of Park Automatic Transmission

The vehicle has an automatic transmission shift lock control system. You have to fully apply the brake pedal before you can shift from P (Park) when the ignition is ON/RUN. See Automatic Transmission Operation .

The shift lock control system is designed to do the following:

    • Prevent the ignition key from being removed unless the shift lever is in P (Park).
    • Prevent movement of the shift lever out of P (Park), unless the ignition is in ON/RUN and the brake pedal is applied.

The shift lock control system is always functional except in the case of a dead battery or low voltage (less than 9 V) battery.

If the vehicle has an uncharged battery or a battery with low voltage, try charging or jump starting the battery. See Jump Starting for more information.

To shift out of P (Park) use the following:

  1. Apply the brake pedal.
  2. Move the shift lever to the desired position.

If you still are unable to shift out of P (Park):

  1. Ease the pressure on the shift lever.
  2. While holding down the brake pedal, push the shift lever all the way into P (Park)
  3. Move the shift lever to the desired position.

If you are still having a problem shifting, then have the vehicle serviced.