Nissan Repair: 2001 MAXIMA Shift Gear Issue, shift lock, shift gear

Question
QUESTION: Hi Calvin,

I'm including a previoud Q & A describe exactly the problem I experienced with my 2001 MAXIMA SE (Automatic Tranmission).
"Expert: Von Sudderth - 3/10/2005

Question
I have a automatic 2001 Maxima and when I try to shift from park to reverse, it gets stuck.  I have to press on the brakes at least 4 times or PUSH THE OVERDRIVE BUTTON ON/OFF before it unlocks and allows me to shift to reverse gear.  Can you tell what the problem is and if/how I can fix it myself.  Thank you.
Answer
The shifter interlock switch on the brake pedal is going out or is out of adjustment.  Look up under the dash and you should see two switches that are depressed when the brake is not being pushed.  One of these works the brake lights and the other works the shifter interlock.  Check the adjustment and if that fails to correct the problem the switch should be replaced.  The shift lock seldom fails so I would go with.

I already replaced both of the switches but the problem remained. What else can I do ? Thanks in advance.

Steven

ANSWER: Hi Steven -

Does this happen every time you place it in Park? So, if you press the brakes multiple times, it will shift out, like the question says above? Have you checked the adjustment of the shifter interlock?

Let me know -
aloha
calvin


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi Calvin,

Sorry for late response. Yes, it does happen every time I place it in Park position and it shifts out after I press the brakes multiple times per your recommendation. Can you explain to me what is happening ? Do I have to go through this everytime before driving ? Any permanent solution ? Do I have to check the adjustment of the shifter interlock?

Mahalo

Steven

Answer
Hi Steven -

Assuming that the switch is new, yes, next step is to check the adjustment of the switch. If that adjustment is ok, there is a possibility that the interlock itself needs adjustment., Perhaps one of the mounting bolts are loose. Check it by removing the console and checking secureness of the component.

Hope this helps -
aloha
calvin