hello, the automatic trans shifter lever button on my 96 contour GL (4 cyl
2.0L) sticks when its in PARK, i have to smack it with my fist to get it to engage so i can change to R or DRIVE, no problem in anyother gear just PARK...help...LOL
Ken ken snipped-for-privacy@yahoo.ca
There is a shift interlock tied in with the brake. You must step on the brake to activate a solenoid that releases the shifter.
If you are stepping on the brake, verify that your brake lights are working. Both use the same switch.
Otherwise, the solenoid is dead or sticky. There is a slot in the side of the console where you are supposed to use a screwdriver to help release it. You need to do that every time.
Finally, check out the forums at
it might be the brake shift switch or it might be the problem i had.. i had the take the shift knob off my 96 contour V-6 automatic trans.. to get the shift bezel(the part that has P,R, N, D, 2, 1 on it which had a crack on the dial) the shift knob came off real easy but i messed up and the two green wires that are inside the shift knob got tangled and one broke(its the wires for the overdrive button right below the shift knob lock button to get it out of park, etc.) well anyway the wires were stopping the plastic rod that goes inside the shift column(the silver hollow pipe that the shift knob attaches to from moving the plastic rod.. the plastic rod has to be moved to allow the car to get out of park and back into park etc.. but if you never had the shift knob removed it is probably the brake switch that is bad??? go to
MotorsForum website is not affiliated with any of the manufacturers or service providers discussed here. All logos and trade names are the property of their respective owners.