The shift lock system is an essential feature in most cars around the world, and the Toyota Camry is no different. On 1991 models of the vehicle, the shifter can get stuck for a variety of reasons. If this happens, you will not be able to move your car into the Park, Neutral or Drive positions. You can troubleshoot this problem with some simple tweaks to get the shifter moving again and allow your car to work properly.
Make sure your key is inserted all the way into your ignition cylinder, and turned to the "Run" position. If the key is not all the way in, you will not be able to move the shifter.
Press the brake pedal with your foot. This vehicle does not allow the shifter to move unless the brake pedal is pressed.
Look to see if the area around and on the shifter is dirty or sticky. It may have become dirty due to overuse, and this can be stopping it from working properly. Clean the area around the shifter with a soft cloth and a soapy solution.
Remove the console covering the shifter by unscrewing it and popping it off from around the edges. See if there is anything broken or restricting the shifter from moving from the inside, and remove these pieces.
Press the override button on the bottom of the shifter to get it moving even it is stuck. You can use this switch, underneath the shifter dashboard, to change gears before you get the shifted fixed if it is still not working.
