Does the 1998 Chevrolet Venture van have the "park to reverse" defect (also known as "false park")?

Hi Katrina,

Let me answer it this way. I was doing a Smog Check Inspection on a manufacturers (I cannot say who's or what model) vehicle and it was "definitely" in park for the test. Then for no inherent reason, it launched out of my shop, dragging me with it (and my testing equipment), and colliding with another customers vehicle in the parking lot!

There was no rhyme-or-reason found for it, but it did. I have the scars to show for it!

If there is a legal issue, which you say is the reason for your question, then you need to find a 'local' dealer/mechanic that would defend your case in Court if needed.

We are happy to give repair advice --- we cannot give legal mechanical advice!

Glenn

To add some to Glenn's answer. With the engine shut off and key out it most automatic transmissions in any make or model can move in all gears if the transmission isn't in park. The reason is that in park there is a mechanical pawl that locks into a piece inside the transmission which holds the output shaft from moving that is the only part that really hold the vehicle in place. In all the other gears that pawl is retracted and only the internal drag of the clutches and gears would keep the vehicle in place. If the vehicle were on a slope or slight incline that friction may not be enough to hold it.

In this case being it sounds like there is a legal issue you would need to get a local expert involved to look over the materials and vehicle and then discuss the options to argue the case.

As for a false park defect, never heard of one in that van. Had them where the interlock wouldn't let you take it out of park and one where the parking pawl was sheared off because someone tried to shift into park while in motion though.