I just bought a 1998 accord LX coupe last night. There are two problems with it, but only one I need help on. I ususlly drive 5-speeds, but this one needed to be able to be used by the wife so I bought an automatic. The car drives fine, but someone has bypassed the shifter "lock-out" (for lack of a better term). I can simply grab the shifter and pull and it goes right into gear. I would like to restore it to proper usage. Does anyone have a clue where to start? I know the button is missing on the shifter handle, so I a thinking that this started the issue. I am hoping it is an easy fix, as the car only has 78,000 miles on it and I am looking forward to a long life with this car as the 3.0 is a blast to drive. Thanks.

 

Take the **** off and see which parts are missing. It has 2 Phillips head screws. There should be the button with a spring. A spacer thing at the top of the shaft. And a little thing on the inside of the spacer that is slanted.

 

I think the bigger question is why was it removed. There is also a safety interlock solenoid that locks the shifter in place. Hope you got a Carfax.

 

I got a really good price on it, and with only 80K miles, I couldn't turn it down. There are a few cosmetic things, but other than that it runs phenominal. I've got a friend who works in a scrapyard and he is getting me a new shifter assembly. I will install it and see what happens. Thanks for the prompt response everyone.