Can I remove/disable a gear shift interlock solenoid?

I'm having a problem with my vehicle where the gear shift (automatic
transmission) will not move out of park unless I hold down the manual
shift lock release mechanism. Searching on the web this seems to be an
issue across all makes. For the record mine is a 2004 Suzuki Forenza
with less than 25k miles. When I took it to the dealer, they told me
that it was not covered by my powertrain warranty and that it would
cost $370 for the part. With labor, who knows.

This is not something I can easily afford and it seems like a lot for
something that I can work around. So I was wondering if it is possible
to just have this part removed or otherwise disabled so that it simply
stops locking the gear shift entirely. Or is it required for overall
function?

On Mon, 21 Dec 2009 13:01:11 -0800 (PST), yaugin >
wrote:

>I'm having a problem with my vehicle where the gear shift (automatic
>transmission) will not move out of park unless I hold down the manual
>shift lock release mechanism. Searching on the web this seems to be an
>issue across all makes. For the record mine is a 2004 Suzuki Forenza
>with less than 25k miles. When I took it to the dealer, they told me
>that it was not covered by my powertrain warranty and that it would
>cost $370 for the part. With labor, who knows.
>
>This is not something I can easily afford and it seems like a lot for
>something that I can work around. So I was wondering if it is possible
>to just have this part removed or otherwise disabled so that it simply
>stops locking the gear shift entirely. Or is it required for overall
>function?

I'm sure you can have it "removed/disabled" but you won't find a shop
that will do it because of the liability.

yaugin > wrote in news:922d911b-8703-447e-89d7-
:

> I'm having a problem with my vehicle where the gear shift (automatic
> transmission) will not move out of park unless I hold down the manual
> shift lock release mechanism.



What's the actual interface? A key slot? A button?



> Or is it required for overall function?


Nope. It just makes sure you had your foot on the brake before shifting out
of park so you'll be less likely to flatten your children by accident and
sue the automaker on purpose.



--
Tegger

On Mon, 21 Dec 2009 13:01:11 -0800 (PST), yaugin > wrote:
>I'm having a problem with my vehicle where the gear shift (automatic
>transmission) will not move out of park unless I hold down the manual
>shift lock release mechanism. Searching on the web this seems to be an
>issue across all makes. For the record mine is a 2004 Suzuki Forenza
>with less than 25k miles. When I took it to the dealer, they told me
>that it was not covered by my powertrain warranty and that it would
>cost $370 for the part. With labor, who knows.

>This is not something I can easily afford and it seems like a lot for
>something that I can work around. So I was wondering if it is possible
>to just have this part removed or otherwise disabled so that it simply
>stops locking the gear shift entirely. Or is it required for overall
>function?

Try calling a shop specializing in setting up cars for the handicaped.
You clearly qualify.

On Dec 21, 2:48*pm, Tegger > wrote:
> What's the actual interface? A key slot? A *button?

It is a key slot.

yaugin > wrote in news:4141868f-1979-44ef-9410-
:

> On Dec 21, 2:48*pm, Tegger > wrote:
>> What's the actual interface? A key slot? A *button?
>
> It is a key slot.
>
>


Then go to the hardware store and get a regular key blank that matches your
ignition key. Stick it in the slot and leave it there.

You can cut most of the new key's head off to make it less intrusive.


--
Tegger