Shifting Out Of Park (P); Parking Your Vehicle; (Manual Transaxle Only) - Pontiac 1997 Grand Am Owner's Manual

Shifting Out of PARK (P)
(Automatic Transaxle Models Only)
Your Pontiac has a brake-transaxle shift interlock. You
have to fully apply your regular brakes before you can
shift from PARK (P) when the ignition is in the RUN
position. See "Automatic Transaxle Operation" in
the Index.
If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on
the shift lever -- push the shift lever all the way into
PARK (P)
--
as you maintain brake application. Then
move the shift lever into the gear you want. (Press the
shift lever button before moving the shift lever.)
If you ever hold the brake pedal down but still can't
shift out of PARK (P), try this:
1. Remove the ignition key.
2. There is a small cap on the passenger's side
of the center console. Gently remove it with a
small screwdriver.
3. Insert the ignition key into this opening until
it contacts with a small paddle. This is the
override feature.
4. While pushing forward on the paddle, press the shift
lever button, then pull the shift lever from PARK (P).
5. Have the vehicle fixed as soon as you can.
Parking Your Vehicle
(Manual Transaxle Only)
Before you get out of your vehicle, put your manual
transaxle in REVERSE (R) and firmly apply the
parking brake.
If you are parking on a hill, or if your vehicle is
equipped to tow a trailer, see "Towing a Trailer"
in the Index.
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