If your 1997 Chevrolet Suburban won't shift out of park, it can leave you feeling like you're stranded. Fortunately you may be able to get going again without too much trouble and get home or get to a certified repair facility. The 1997 Suburban is equipped with a shift brake interlock that prevents the transmission from moving out of park unless the brake is pressed. If this system fails, the transmission will stick in park.
Look in the driver's foot well and examine the brake pedal. There is a small switch on the brake pedal that controls the brake lights and the shift brake interlock. Sometimes this gets dirty and sticks in place. If this is happening, it will prevent the lock from triggering and releasing the transmission. Clean the switch and try to move the shifter again.
Inside the shift mechanism there is a solenoid that moves backward and forward. This also has a tendency to become stuck when it gets dirty. Its position on the column makes it particularly vulnerable to spilled soda and coffee. Pop the plastic cover off the shifter using your fingers around the edge and clean the underside and the shifter workings with the solvent cleaner. Test the mechanism again. If it is working you will hear a clicking sound from the column when the solenoid releases.
Put the key in the ignition and turn it one click from the "Lock" position to the "Off" position. If the dash lights come on, you have gone too far. Press the brake and move the transmission from park to neutral. You can start and drive the vehicle with the transmission in neutral, but you have to use the parking brake to keep the car still.
