Can ignition/shifter cable be bypassed??
Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 673
Likes: 13
From: Greenville SC
Can ignition/shifter cable be bypassed??
Yes I did a search but couldn't find much. I've got an intermittent problem with my key getting stuck in the ignition due to the cable that is attached to the shifter not returning all the way in park (automatic car). I don't see any adjustment on the cable itself, and honestly I'm not sure if it's the cable or the shifter mechanism. Would prefer to just get rid of that feature altogether and not worry about it. Is this possible?
Right now, if it gets stuck I can usually tap the shifter button a few times and it will release. I have taken the **** off the shifter and observed this in action. The "rod" that touches the bottom of the shift **** button is not returning all the way back up. I can take my hand and pull the rod up and all is well. It only moves maybe less than quarter inch when I do this... So is that a flaw with the shifter or the cable?
Right now, if it gets stuck I can usually tap the shifter button a few times and it will release. I have taken the **** off the shifter and observed this in action. The "rod" that touches the bottom of the shift **** button is not returning all the way back up. I can take my hand and pull the rod up and all is well. It only moves maybe less than quarter inch when I do this... So is that a flaw with the shifter or the cable?
Le Mans Master
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 6,835
Likes: 302
From: Columbia SC
I'll look at my FSM and give you some feedback. Not at home now.
Here is some owners manual info in the interim:
Be sure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) before starting
the engine. Your vehicle has an automatic transmission
shift lock control system. You have to fully apply your
regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when
the ignition key is in ON. If you cannot shift out of
PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever -- push the
shift lever all the way into PARK (P) and release the shift
lever button as you maintain brake application. Then press
the shift lever button and move the shift lever into the gear
you wish. If you do not apply the brake after 15 seconds
once the ignition is turned on, you will receive a PRESS
BRAKE BEFORE SHIFT message in the Driver
Information Center (DIC). See “Shifting Out of
PARK (P)” in the Index.
I remember in older cars if the car moves some after putting the auto into park you can have a problem in shifting out of Park. Not sure if that relates to your issue. Normally applying the hand brake prevents that issue.
Here is some owners manual info in the interim:
Be sure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) before starting
the engine. Your vehicle has an automatic transmission
shift lock control system. You have to fully apply your
regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when
the ignition key is in ON. If you cannot shift out of
PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever -- push the
shift lever all the way into PARK (P) and release the shift
lever button as you maintain brake application. Then press
the shift lever button and move the shift lever into the gear
you wish. If you do not apply the brake after 15 seconds
once the ignition is turned on, you will receive a PRESS
BRAKE BEFORE SHIFT message in the Driver
Information Center (DIC). See “Shifting Out of
PARK (P)” in the Index.
I remember in older cars if the car moves some after putting the auto into park you can have a problem in shifting out of Park. Not sure if that relates to your issue. Normally applying the hand brake prevents that issue.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 5,015
Likes: 508
From: Hilton NY
The small cable that connects the ignition switch to the shifter is a safety feature that forces the driver to place the car in Park before the key can be removed, this is so the driver doesn't leave the car while it's in Drive and allow the car to possibly roll down a hill. The small cable can be disconnected. The small cable and shifter solenoid both connect to the shifter button shaft, either can cause the button to stick. You can unclip the small cable to see if it is causing the binding and if it isn't then the solenoid power can be disconnected to check that as a possible cause. Most problems with the shifter are related to the solenoid as seen in the archives. Enclosed is what the shifter looks like in Park with the boot assembly removed. If you try to remove the shifter be careful not to lift it too far before the large cable is released or the plastic end of the shifter cable can crack.
