stuck in park

treeneedle · Post by **treeneedle** » 15 Oct 2011, 02:29

I have a 97 960, it will not shift out of park without using the manual override button, dealer said it is selenoid. Is that the same as neutral shift switch? can I replace it myself ? or do I have to go to dealer. Thanks as always.
Don

Post by **billofdurham** » 15 Oct 2011, 13:06

The '97 960 has both a P-shift solenoid and a P-shift lock switch. The solenoid is at the bottom of the gear shift. The lock switch should not require any adjustment.

Have you checked the fuses? I have two books which show different fuses for the transmission selector. One shows fuse #11 and the other #21. However, I always check all fuses as often changes are made that do not get into the books.

There is also a relay in the circuit. This is mounted under the dash about where the driver's left knee would be. To check the relay turn on the ignition without starting the engine and move the gear shift to N. Move the shift to D and listen for a click from the relay. if you hear a click move the lever back to N and press the brake pedal a few times. You should hear a weaker click from the solenoid.

Replacing the solenoid can be done by DIY but it is a complicated procedure. If you need details post back.

Bill.

treeneedle · Post by **treeneedle** » 15 Oct 2011, 15:10

Thanks Bill for a while I thought I asked a question that couldn't be answered. I will check the fuses and relay and post back.
Thanks Don

treeneedle · Post by **treeneedle** » 15 Oct 2011, 16:31

Bill , checked fuses both ok it is fuse #21, turned ignition on no click in neutral or drive, can I check the relay outside the car and can I get to it by taking down panel under steering column?
Thanks Don

treeneedle · Post by **treeneedle** » 18 Oct 2011, 15:10

Bill if you are out there I checked fuses ok no click when key is on and I push brake down, looked under dash but can't find relay, not sure what to look for? there are 3 relays in fuse box on side of dash are they what I want? Should I just take it to dealer ? Thanks again Don

Post by **billofdurham** » 20 Oct 2011, 13:29

Apologies. The '97 960 doesn't have the relay. I was looking at the '93 wiring.

However, a little more digging has shown that there is a micro switch in The gear shift assembly. This micro switch is a common failure point.

Before diving into the shift mechanism check your brake lights as a failure in the brake light switch can cause the problem.

To gain access to the micro switch remove the console. On the passenger side near the gear position indicator is a small black switch with a metal lever. The switch is about 1 in. long and 0.5 in wide and is held in place by a small round metal clip. There are two black wires. Unbolt the shift and lift it up slightly to access switch. You do not have to disconnect anything under the car. Be careful removing the switch retainer as its easy to break the small plastic post the switch mounts to. To test, short the two wires together with key on and brake pedal pressed. If it now comes out of park, replace or bypass the switch.

I have combined your two topics for continuity.

Bill.

Mike-n-levi · Post by **Mike-n-levi** » 15 May 2015, 13:22

Bill & others,

I have a 93 960 stuck in park... we have checked fuses, and already pulled the center console. the shift lock override push button was found to be broken forcing me to suspect somthing more damaged below any suggestions on weak parts to id first?

lummert · Post by **lummert** » 15 May 2015, 16:16

May be easier to replace the shifter with on from a junk yard if the over-ride button is broken. The shifter on these cars is not user friendly.