To feel safe getting in and out of your Pontiac, you need to know it won't roll away and crash after you park it. If your vehicle or worn shift cable clip, though, when you park and remove the ignition key, the transmission gear may not actually be in "Park." General Motors recalled some 2009 Pontiacs because of an issue with the clip, but a do-it-yourself mechanic can make the repair. Driver safety is the biggest reason for any automotive recall or backyard repair.
Pry up the plastic shift lever housing cover with a flat screwdriver. As the flat blade wiggles under the plastic housing, listen for a snap sound indicating the housing has released. Lift the cover off the shift lever assembly.
Look at how the cable attaches to the shift lever. Try to move the cable back and forth. If the cable doesn't move, then it is too tight and short. If the cable has too much play -- moving up and down 3 to 4 inches -- then it is too loose and too long. Replace the cable if it is too short or too long. Each transmission requires a specific shift cable length. Purchase the shift cable that is the correct length for your car.
Grip the shift cable clip with pliers. Squeeze hard and pull the clip so that it releases the shift cable. Lift out the shift lever from the housing.
Push the shift lever back and forth from "Park" to "Drive" to "Reverse" and into the lower gears, making sure it moves smoothly, but with some friction.
Insert the shift lever back into the housing. Attach the shift cable to the lever with a new clip. The length of the shift cable must match the movement of the shift lever. Insert the clip into the shift lever, making sure the cable is secure, but not too tight or too loose.
Slide the shift lever back and forth with the ignition key removed. The lever should not move without the brake depressed and the ignition turned on. If the shift cable clip is working, then snap the plastic housing cover back in place.
