GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Caution: It can be dangerous to get out of the vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in P (Park) with the parking brake firmly set. The vehicle can roll. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure the vehicle will not move, even when you are on fairly level ground, use the steps that follow. If you are pulling a trailer, see Towing a Trailer .

  1. Hold the brake pedal down with your right foot and set the parking brake by pulling up on the parking brake lever.

  2. Object Number: 1219033  Size: B3
  3. Move the shift lever into the PARK (P) as follows:
  4. • Hold in the button on the shift lever.
    • Push the lever all the way toward the front of your vehicle.
    • After you've moved the shift lever into the "P" (Park) position, hold the regular brake pedal down. Then, see if you can move the shift lever away from "P" (Park) without pressing the button on the shift lever. If you can, it means that the shift lever wasn't fully locked into "P" (Park).
  5. Move the ignition key to "OFF."
  6. Remove the key and take it with you.

Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running

Caution: It can be dangerous to leave the vehicle with the engine running. The vehicle could move suddenly if the shift lever is not fully in P (Park) with the parking brake firmly set. And, if you leave the vehicle with the engine running, it could overheat and even catch fire. You or others could be injured. Do not leave the vehicle with the engine running.

If you have to leave your vehicle with the engine running, be sure your vehicle is in PARK (P) and your parking brake is firmly set before you leave it. After you've moved the shift lever into PARK (P), hold the regular brake pedal down. Then, see if you can move the shift lever away from PARK (P) without first pushing the button. If you can, it means that the shift lever wasn't fully locked into PARK (P).