Symptoms
- Shifter stays locked in park even with the brake pressed firmly
- Brake lights may be out at the same time
- Works intermittently, sometimes needing several tries
- Manual override slot near shifter provides a temporary workaround
Likely causes
- CommonFaulty brake light switchThis switch, mounted near the top of the brake pedal, tells the interlock the brake is pressed; it's a common failure point.
- CommonBlown fuseA fuse dedicated to the interlock circuit or shared with brake lights can blow and disable the system.
- PossibleMisadjusted brake pedal or switch positionA switch that's slightly out of position may not register the pedal press correctly.
- PossibleFailed shift interlock solenoid at the shifterThe solenoid that physically releases the shift lock can fail electrically or mechanically.
- Less commonWiring issue between switch and solenoidDamaged or corroded wiring can interrupt the signal even with good components.
What to do
- Check whether the brake lights work when you press the pedal, since a shared fault often affects both.
- Check and replace the relevant fuse if it's blown.
- Try the manual shift-lock override near the shifter (check the owner's manual) to move the car if needed.
- Inspect the brake light switch area at the top of the brake pedal for a visibly loose or disconnected switch.
- Avoid relying on the manual override as a permanent solution.
- Have a mechanic test the brake light switch and interlock solenoid with a multimeter if fuses check out fine.
- Replace the faulty component once identified, then confirm normal operation.
Tools and parts
- Fuse puller/tester
- Multimeter (optional)
Brake light switchSearch: “brake light switch [make model year]”
When to call a pro
See a mechanic if the brake light switch and fuses aren't the issue, since testing the solenoid and wiring needs some electrical diagnosis.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.