Shift Interlock: Description and Operation

DESCRIPTION
The shift interlock system was designed to ensure that the vehicle could not be started unless in the PARK (P) position. A shift lock actuator was incorporated in the system, to prevent both the vehicle from being shifted out of the PARK (P) position when the ignition key is not in the ON position and when the brake pedal is depressed.

OPERATION
The ignition/shifter interlock cable locks the transmission range selector in the PARK (P) position when the ignition switch lock cylinder is in the LOCK position. It also requires the transmission range selector to be in the PARK (P) position to turn the ignition switch lock cylinder to the LOCK position.
An ignition/shifter interlock cable, located in the transmission range selector, prevents free movement into and out of a specific position. The shift button on the transmission range selector knob must be pressed to be moved from:
^ P to R
^ R to P
^ N to R
^ D to 2
^ 2 to 1
The shift button does not have to be pressed to move the transmission range selector from:
^ R to N
^ N to D
^ 1 to 2
^ 2 to D
^ D to N

The shift lock actuator receives an electrical signal when the ignition key is turned to the ON position and the brake pedal is depressed. When the key is ON and the brake pedal is depressed, the actuator pulls the actuator plate to allow the transmission range selector to be moved out of PARK (P).

COMPONENTS
The shift interlock system consists of the:
^ Park range switch
^ Shift lock actuator
^ Ignition/shifter interlock cable
^ Lockout switch





MANUAL EMERGENCY OVERRIDE FUNCTION
^ A lockout switch is incorporated in the shift interlock system. The lockout switch manually releases the transmission range selector in the event that the shift lock actuator fails and the vehicle can not be moved out of the PARK (P) position with the ignition ON and the brake pedal depressed.
^ To engage the manual override pry open the emergency override cover, and insert the ignition key into the slot. The ignition key must be inserted in the lockout switch while depressing the brake pedal. This will allow the transmission range selector to be moved out of the PARK (P) position.