91 240sx Automatic Transmission Shift Lock Stuck in Park

[Raven]

I have a 1991 240sx with Automatic Overdrive Transmission. 165K miles.

Lately, I have been having an problem with the A/T Shift Lock System. The selector lever cannot be moved from "P" range when applying brake pedal.

The engine starts, but the shift lever will not move unless I over- ride it by engaging the shift lock release which is located in a small recess in front of the shifter (I believe there may have been a release knob, but it is now missing).

Brake lights work, but I am not sure that rules out the stop lamp switch.

Fuses are all good and I am not parking on hills.

It does not hang up if I stop the car and place it in neutral.

When the problem fist began, leaving it sit a few hours or overnight would solve it, at least the next time it was started.

I thought that it could be some sort of plastic push rod or chain in the handle that has become worn. The push button on the side of the handle does not push in when I am having the problem.

Overall, it seems to me it could be the shift lock solenoid or maybe the shift lock control unit. At times when the shifter does work properly, I hear a "click-click" from the console, just below the shifter.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

[U12 2NR]

Check your brake light fuse, check your shift control fuse.

[Raven]

U12 2NR,

Appreciate your reply.

Just checked the brake light and shift control fuse. Both are OK.

Any other ideas.

Thanks!

[nlzmo400r]

i think u were getting warm when u mentioned the shift lock soleniod, ok possible the connection piece inside of your lever is breaking or not connecting properly?

[U12 2NR]

since the problem is intermittent, check the brake switch and make sure it's not sticking. The click you hear when in park and you press the brake is the switch.

[NISTECH]

check your key interlock cable. could be binding and not allowing the shiftlock solonoid to move. another problem we see very very often at the dealership is spilled soda or some other sticky liquid gets down in the solonoid making it operate intermittenly.

[Raven]

All,

Thanks for the help. Still working on it. I think we have identified all the usual suspects. Nothing yet. Any other ideas let me know.

One other thing. Has anyone ever had experience with an automatic transmission that shifts hard from 1st to 2nd, but only when cold. The car has been doing this since I bought it, about 2 or 3 years now. In the summer, when temps are in the 80's and 90's, no problem. Cold winter days, it will bang into gear for the first 5 shifts or 5 miles or so, until warmed up.

I'm thinking a fluid terperature sensor inside the transmission.

Little hesitant to bring it somewhere without knowing what I am up against. Once again, any advice is greatly appreciated.

Raven

[97ka-t]

bump! I have EXACTLY the same problems.. checked the same things.. still not working..