After I turn on the car, I can't take it out of [P]ark. The car starts fine, but the shifter is locked in [P]

<I had to manually unlock the shifter with the key, then put it into [N]eutral, then start up the car then it runs fine>

But later on I see that my brake lamps aren't lighting up. Maybe there's a problem with the fuse or something?

Any help would be GREATLY appreciated since I have a long road trip I have to make TONIGHT !

Thank you and have a nice day!

 

Look down at the brake pedal for the switch that turns on the brake lights. That also tells the interlock solenoid to release the shift lever. Look for bent or broken bracket for that switch, maybe unplugged wiring, or something like that. Or maybe the switch has just gone bad...

 

try sticking your key in the slot next to the shifter. mmaybe that will help

 

parked on a hill?