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Honda Accord: Why is My Transmission Stuck in Park?

You do not want to be in a situation where your transmission is stuck in park. It's frustrating and a hassle, especially if you need to be at a certain place. Here's what to look for if it happens to you.

By Arthur Guerrero - March 3, 2015

This article applies to the Honda Accord (1990-2002).

Honda vehicles are known for their reliability; however, no car is problem-free or lasts forever. A common issue that surfaces on an ageing Accord is the automatic transmission getting stuck in park. This is a situation you definitely do not want to be in if you have an important appointment. So if this problem occurs once, it's best to fix the issue as soon as possible before it turns into a daily occurrence. This article will help you diagnose the reason why your transmission is stuck in park.

Step 1 – Check the brake lights and fuse

The easiest and first diagnoses is to check if the brake lights and fuses are working properly. If you notice that one or both light bulbs are out, you should fix this issue as soon as possible. This could potentially solve your transmission issue.

  • While stepping on the brake pedal, have someone behind the car to inspect the brake lights. If one or both of your brake light bulbs are out, then try replacing the light bulbs.
  • If you replaced the bulbs and the brake lights still aren't work, try checking the brake light fuse. Your fuse box is located under the hood, and the owner's manual will display the exact location of the brake light fuse. If the fuse is blown, replace it. This should resolve your issue.
  • You should also check the backup light fuse. This fuse is located in the driver's side fuse box, which is located near the hood release latch.
Figure 1. Under the hood fuse box.

Pro Tip

Usually, cars come with spare replacement fuses, so you won't need to purchase new ones.

(Related Article: Fuse Box Diagram - Honda-Tech.com)

Step 2 – Check the shift interlock solenoid

When you step on the brake pedal, there should be a shift interlock solenoid that activates and releases your shift lever. This allows you to change your shift lever from Park to Drive. If the shift interlock solenoid is not working properly, your shift lever will get stuck in park.

  • First, try to listen for the shift interlock solenoid engaging when you press the brakes. If you hear a little click coming from the shift lever, you can be certain that it's working properly. It should make another sound after you release the brake pedal, so pay attention.
  • If you can't hear a noise coming from the shift lever, you can try cleaning it. You will have to take apart the center console to access it. If you have some mechanical automotive skills, this will be an easy task. If you don't, you might want to have a mechanic take a look at it.
  • If you clean thoroughly and the shift lever remains unresponsive, try replacing the shift interlock solenoid with a new one.
Figure 2. Shift interlock solenoid.

Step 3 – Check the brake light switch

Your last option is to check the brake light switch. Every time you step on the brake pedal, a brake switch is activated. This switch has to be in proper working condition for the shift interlock solenoid to release the lever. An electrical problem with the brake light switch usually leads your shift lever to be stuck in park.

  • If you inspect and notice the brake light switch tip is broken, you will have to replace it. It's a tedious job, so you might want to get help from an automotive mechanic. The part is fairly cheap and can be purchased at your local auto parts store.
  • If at this stage you still can't get your shift lever out of park, you might as well replace the entire brake light switch. If it isn't a visible problem, then it might be an electrical one.
Figure 3. Locate the brake light switch near the steering column.

Pro Tip

If you're crunched for time and need a temporary fix, you can use the shift release lock next to the shift lever. It is located above and to the right of the the shift lever. Simply insert and push a flat head screwdriver or a key into the little slot. This should disengage the shift lever.

Featured Video: Diagnoses of Shift Level Stuck in Park

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