Saturn Repair: AT shifter, possiblities, electronic component

Question
Having trouble getting out of park..was told it could be selenoid in
shifter itself..its an electronic component..works ok after pumping
brake pedal, but not always. Help!

Answer
Tina,
 I know of two possiblities causing the condition you describe.  I assume that your vehicle is late '90s or early '00 model, and that it is an S-series.  First, the solenoid, or BTSI (Brake to Shift Interlock), rarely goes out.  If it does go out you will most likely find that you can simply put the vehicle in gear when the engine is off.  Second, more often than not I have found that the BTSI Cable (connects the BTSI solenoid to the Ignition Cylinder Housing) becomes slightly mangled.  There is a 1 1/2 inch pin on the ign. cyl. side of the cable that goes into the bottom of the cylinder housing.  This pin can become bent over time.  It can also be bent if an individual does not allow enough time between when they depress the brake and when they attempt to place the vehicle in drive.  This cable is no fun to change, even if it's a mechanic doing it.  It involves some cursing, throwing of tools and being able to bend a human body into positions that it was never designed to do.  With that being said, GOOD LUCK!  Hope this helps.  
Chris