Shifter won't leave park

[JPV]

Hi,

I am having a random problem with my 04 shifter lockout. It only happens in the mornings when it is cold - 50 degrees or below. It used to just happen occasionally, but now it is happening every time in the morning.

I have made sure that the brake pedal is firmly depressed (and I have confirmed with my wife that the rear brake lights are all lit up when I do this). I can press the bypass button and that works to get it out of park. Once the vehicle is warmed up, this ceases to become an issue.

I would like to fix whatever issue is causing this - any idea?

[heartdisease]

JPV

Could you be a little more specific on what vehicle you have with what options miles etc? The more info people have the better.

[mike james]

I assume the Highlander will have a shift interlock solenoid given the click you hear when you touch the brake. Likely your best bet. Not an aftermarket supported part so Toyota would be your next call.

[JPV]

It is a V6 2004 Toyota Highlander AWD with around 105K miles on it (auto transmission).

I don't hear a click when I hit the brake - can you be more specific about the shift interlock solenoid - where it is and how to test and fix?

Thanks!

[mike james]

I've never had to change mine, so I can't tell you exactly where it is, but it should be located under the shift lever.

Maybe they made the sound less audible in the later years, but the second I step on the brake pedal there is a distinct click noise and you can feel it in the shift lever.

[JPV]

I went out this morning and don't hear that solenoid noise. It took a while to be able to use the shifter as designed - I didn't hear or feel anything special when it suddenly unlocked...

Any other ideas out there or does anyone have an idea how to test the shift interlock solenoid?

Thanks!

[grandpapa]

i remembered reading something like this. Turns out to be some rubber (battery cable cover, or whatever) near that areas was lose and dropped to area that blocked the shifting cable. Check around that area.