My 2003 Honda Accord Won't Come Out of Park
One of the biggest problems that can develop in the automatic version of the 2003 Honda Accord is that the transmission can become stuck in Park. This immobilizes the vehicle and can result in an expensive tow. The transmission can be moved out of park though, and you may discover the cause of the problem as well.
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Instructions
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Lift the trim around the edge of the transmission shifter. There are six clips, one on each side in the front, middle and rear of the trim. You should be able to lift the trim with your fingers. If you cannot lift it with your fingers then use the screwdriver as a lever to release the clips. Be careful not to scratch the trim while you're working.
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2
Examine the underside of the shifter for anything sticky. Sometimes a soda or coffee spilled on the top of the shifter will seep down underneath and make the underside of the transmission shifter sticky. This can make the transmission difficult to move out of park.
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Clean the underside of the shifter with solvent cleaner and paper towels. Use as little cleaner as possible to prevent it getting into the workings of the car. Press the brake with the key in the "On" position and try moving the shifter.
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Locate the flap to the left of the park position on the shifter if it still won't move. This is a release switch that will override the interlock and allow you to move the transmission out of park. Open the flap and hold the button and brake while using your other hand to move the transmission out of park.
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Tips & Warnings
Put a paper towel around the end of the screwdriver to prevent it from scratching as you're levering up the trim.
You can leave the car in neutral so it can start and stop. Make sure the parking brake is applying and releasing correctly. It may be sticky if you have not used it in a long time.
References
- Photo Credit yellow car, a honda japanese sport car model image by alma_sacra from Fotolia.com
