Shift Lock Won't Release

Tiny
CHAZMOFO
  • MEMBER
  • TOYOTA 4RUNNER
I have a 98 4Runner Limited w/89k miles. Yesterday, I towed my snowmobile to a drop-off spot and parked. When I returned, the shift lever release would not activate. I assume there is a solenoid or something which activates when the brake is depressed.? To add mystery to the question, I must tell you that 1) I did have the vehicle in 4wd when it was turned off (although this isn't something new) and, 2) I was dealing with an apparent short in my trailer wiring which kept burning out my signal lamp fuses. When this occurred, there was a good fuse in place. The problem continues after being home. Any thoughts? Is this "release" a fused circuit? Do I have a bad solenoid? The manual only tells me to see a dealer.
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Sunday, December 17th, 2006 AT 12:10 PM

2 Replies

Tiny
2CARPRO JACK
  • MECHANIC
  • 11,533 POSTS
If your trailer was shorting out your wiring I would definitly check all the fuses. Yes the shift-lock is on a fused circuit. Do your brake and all other lights work normally?There should be a manual release on the console for the shifter, for just such an occasion.
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Monday, December 18th, 2006 AT 8:24 AM
Tiny
PHILHAYWARD
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I had a similar problem with a '90 Corolla - the connection to the switch on the brake pedal was loose, so my brake lights wouldn't turn on, and the shift lock wouldn't release. I fixed that connection, and haven't had a problem since.
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Monday, December 18th, 2006 AT 10:42 AM

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