Automatic shifter problem

[mnwelch]

I have a 4cyl 95 camry automatic. I can't get it to start. It turns over but won't crank. My question is when the with key in the start position should i be able to move the shifter through the gears? It's like locked into the park position. I'm thinking this might be some of my starting problem somehow. Another question is there a reasonably priced scanning tool i could buy to plug into this thing? Thanks for the help.

[ghettosled]

what do you mean it turns over but doesnt crank? is the starter turning but the engine doesnt run? the engine running is independent of the gear shift, assuming its not is R, D, 2 or 1. the car has to be in neutral or park to start the car. if the engine is not running and the key is in the "on" position, you should be able to shift out of park into any gear.
was your check engine light on before you had a problem? i dont know how true this is, but i thought the engine has to be running to pull any trouble codes because without the engine running, the check engine light will always light up when the key is in the "on" position.

[Hajoca]

In the Key ON or position, you need to press brake to move shifter.

On shifter console near front is a manual overide button under a plastic cover, see owners manual, but just pry it off and push down and move the gear selecter.

[Kep]

In my 95 I4 when the key is in the on position but the engine is off the shifter does not move. It is also stuck in park. Somehow it knows that the engine is running before it lets you shift.

Get to the basics. Is your timing belt broken? (easy check, remove the distributor cap and have someone crank the engine while you look. If the rotor doesn't move then the TB is broken.) Are you getting spark? (pull a plug and ground it. Crank the engine and you should see a nice blue spark) Are you getting fuel? (while you have the plug out smell the cylinder after you crank it. Or, when all the plugs are back in, spray a little starter fluid in the air filter. If the engine tries to start then you have a fuel problem.)

Let us know...

Kep

PS- my 95 has an OBDI port. I don't believe that they make a scanner for the OBDIs. You just jump the proper contacts and read the flashes.

[mnwelch]

The check light never came before. I cut it off one day went to start the next day and it wouldn't crank. I will try the basics and let you know what happens. I am convinced it's electrical. But i am will to try anything.