How to Troubleshoot a '97 Intrepid Gear Selector That is Stuck

Troubleshooting your vehicle is a component of car care.

The Dodge Intrepid is a full-sized sedan that was manufactured by Chrysler from 1993 to 2004. The 1997 Intrepid was a first generation model that came stocked with a 3.3 liter engine, assisted power-steering and a four-speed automatic transmission. Over time, you may notice problems with your transmission: For example, the gear selector may suddenly stop shifting. This is often caused by a problem along the gear shaft. Provided the source of a stuck gear selector is not internal, troubleshooting it should be easy.

Things You'll Need

• Flathead screwdriver
• Hex wrench
• Tire blocks

Instructions

Troubleshooting Tips

1. Navigate or tow your Intrepid to a safe location on even ground. Engage the parking brake and apply blocks in front of the tires. This will help prevent your vehicle from rolling while you are troubleshooting the gear shaft.

2. Turn off the engine. Climb underneath the driver's side dashboard, so you can get a view behind the steering wheel. Position yourself so that you can see the brake pedal assembly.

3. Trace the brake pedal upwards towards the dashboard, until you reach the brake switch. Depress the brake pedal with your hand -- while you monitor the brake switch. Ensure that the brake switch releases when you depress the pedal. If the brake switch does not release, it may need to be replaced.

Repair Tips

1. Inspect the handle on the gear selector for a small pinhole. Insert a hex wrench into the pinhole and rotate counter-clockwise to remove the handle.

2. Inspect the inside of the shifter housing. Locate the interlock cable near the top of the shifter lever. The interlock cable is a coil attached to the lever.

3. Loosen the interlock cable with a screwdriver. Loosen the adjustment nut on the interlock lever. Inspect the cable adjuster to ensure it is in the locked position. Tighten the adjustment nut to the interlock lever.

4. Secure the interlock cable with a screwdriver. Replace the shifter handle on top of the shifter lever and secure the handle with a hex wrench.

Tips & Warnings

• Consult a professional mechanic, if you suspect the problem is inside the interior of the transmission. Breaking down a transmission is a difficult task.

References

• AutoZone: 1997 Dodge Intrepid Vehicle Repair Guide
• AutoZone: Transmission Kickdown Solenoid