Shift Lever Does Not Contact Unlock Switch

The transmission shift lever release rod may not be dropping down far enough to contact and close the Unlock Switch. This leaves the lifting magnet (solenoid) on the ignition switch energized at all times and prevents the key from being removed from the ignition. The following items are the most common reasons for the shift lever release rod not to properly contact the Unlock Switch:

^ A black tie strap may be fastened around the shift lever just above the leather boot. This tie strap is part of the shipping protection and if not removed can slip under the shift handle release lever and prevent the shift lever release rod from dropping down far enough for the "foot" to contact the Unlock Switch. Remove this tie strap if present and check the Park/Lock system operation. If the key is still stuck in the ignition, proceed to the next item.

^ The transmission shift linkage may be slightly misadjusted causing the shift lever release rod "foot" to bind or hang on either the front or rear edge of the "PARK" position slot. Typically if misadjustment is the problem, the shift linkage is adjusted too short and is pulling the release rod "foot" hard against front edge of the "PARK" slot. The spring in the shift lever handle cannot overcome the excessive friction and "foot" hangs up and does not drop down to depress the Unlock Switch. To diagnose the problem, raise the leather boot around the shift lever and observe whether or not the "foot" consistently contacts the Unlock Switch. If the shift linkage appears misadjusted, adjust it using the adjustment bolt under the car near where the linkage connects to the transmission. Typically, loosening the adjustment bolt to relieve the tension in the shift linkage is all that is necessary to eliminate misadjustment related problems. Proceed to the next item if adjustment does not resolve the problem.

^ The shift lever release rod "foot" could also bind or hang on the edges of the "PARK" slot if the shift lever release rod is bent or damaged. If bent severely enough, the release rod can bind at times inside the shift lever and stay stuck in the raised (released) position. If the shift lever release rod is bent or damaged, replace the shifter assembly with P/N 90437437. If the shift lever release rod is properly contacting the Unlock Switch but the key is still stuck in the ignition, check the electrical circuit and lifting magnet per the next section.

Important:
On VIN's prior to sequence number VR070031,the "foot" on the end of the shift lever release rod is coated in white plastic. If the plastic coating becomes frayed or torn, it may prevent contact with the Unlock Switch. In these cases, replace the entire shift lever assembly with P/N 90437437.

Parts are currently available from GMSPO.