My neighbor called me for assistance. I have a C2 4 speed so he figured I knew all about 98 automatics. He is mechanically challenged but a good guy. The problem is he can't get the car out of park. I looked at it and did the obvious, read buyers manual, checked for blown fuses, checked to see if brake peddle switch was releasing, but without service manual or wiring diagram I am lost. He has had this problem once before but don't know how it was fixed. (see challenged above). Can anyone suggest what I look for? Was there a characteristic problem with the 98 and getting it out of park?
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Re: Can't get out of park
Is he parked on a hill? Apply force to car to relieve the pressure created on the car by the incline. Simultaneously, have him attempt to take it out of park. This is a generic response which has worked for me in the past although it was on a F##d product. -
Re: Can't get out of park
i have had 3 C-5s with auto and never had this problem. it could be something to do with the "push brake pedal to shift" but the igniton also has to be on so that means there is a electricial interlock somewhere. call the GM 800 number.Comment
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Re: Can't get out of park
The car is in his garage on a flat floor. Unfortunately we can't get to it to let the "hook" get it out.Comment
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Re: Can't get out of park
John, A relative of mine has a Lincoln Town car that did the same thing. He talked to the service manager at the Lincoln dealership. He told him to just turn the ignition switch to the RUN POSITION ONLY, DO NOT try to start the car.
Then depress the brake pedal and move the shift lever out of Park. Once out of Park, put it in Neutral and you should be able to start and move the car. I don't know if the C5 has the same set-up, but it is worth a try. I guess it happens quite a bit on Lincoln's, as the Lincoln service manager knew exactly what the problem was. Hope it works. DaveComment
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Re: Can't get out of park
Make sure that you are depressing the brake pedal. These vehicles have a transmission lock that won't disengage unless the brake pedal is depressed. It could also be the lock switch. I don't have a C5 so I don't know where the switch is located.Comment
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Re: Can't get out of park
Have you tried wiggling the steering wheel left and right AS you are trying to shift, while holding the brake pedal on?
ArtComment
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Ask a dealer? *NM*
DickComment
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Re: Can't get out of park
A relative of mine also has a Lincoln car that has locked up a few times if the wheels are turned when it is shut off. Last time it happened the tow truck driver did a man handle move on the steering wheel, experience helps, and the owner paid for a tow call.Comment
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Re: Can't get out of park
John,
My 93 GMC van does this all the time. It's to the point now where I don't even try to start it in "Park" any more.
Turn the key to the detent JUST BEFORE the "run" position. Put the shifter in neutral, foot on the brake and start it up. This procedure should also be in your owner's manual.
One of these days I'm gonna find that safety switch and rip it out......
good luck
tcComment
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