Cadillac Repair: shift lever problems, solinoid, cadillac deville

Question
I have a 2000 cadillac deville and I cannot shift out of park what do you think the problem may be?  

Answer
Hi Bill,

     What happens most of the time is the shift solinoid can go bad. There is a possability that the fuse has gone open.

     But there is hope. Most times you can turn the key to unlock the steering column but not enough to light the dash lights. At that point the shift lever can be moved to neutral and with your foot on the brake start the engine and drive it to your mechanic who can diagnose what the problem is. If you don't mind the shift and start procedure for awhile you could drive it for awhile until you have a chance to get it in.

     If you are mechanically inclined you could remove the panel below the steering column and where the shift cable is at the bottom of the steering column you will see the solinoid unless you have a console shift in which case the solinoid will be in the console next to the shifter. useing a small flatblade screwdriver remove the lock tab and then separate the connector from the solinoid. At that point the engine should be able to start and then you can shift out of park without pushing on the brake pedal.

     Hope that helps. Bill