Luxurexus

So today I start my '91 LS400 and the transmission button is stuck and will not allow me to shift thru any gears. After hitting the shift lock over ride button it went back to working perfectly. Now every time I turn off and restart the car I have to press the Shift Lock Over Ride button. What causes this? I have about 200,xxx miles and am not sure what fluid is currently in it or how old it is because it is a recently purchased vehicle. The fluid still looks red in color but is a little dirty. Any and all help is appreciated.

Luxurexus

Has anyone else heard of or had this problem? I am going to attempt to change the fluid and filter to see if it makes a difference but would rather not waste the $100 if it is a new transmission I need.

SpencerT

If it returns to normal after you hit the shift lock, I doubt you need a new transmission.

Luxurexus

I hope not, but why is it getting locked up? I can understand it locking up from time to time but with it being every time it makes me think there is something wrong.

SpencerT

After some research:

In order to move the shift lever out of park, the key must be turned to acessory or on and the brake pedal must be depressed. When this happens the ECU turns on the shift lock solenoid, moving the plate stopper and allowing the shift lock plate to move into position.

If the solenoid becomes inoperative, the shift lever cannot be moved. The shift lock overide button can be pressed to manually release the plate stopper from the shift lock plate, allowing you to shift.


Sounds like its the shift lock solenoid to me.

This is a generic toyota diagram and should clarify what I said before

steve2006

I've seen this problem before, over the years all sorts of dirt and crud falls into the selector, giving it a good cleanout with a vacuum and brush normally frees things off again.
With the ignition on put your foot on the brake pedal and you should be able to hear and feel the solenoid operate, if you can't try the above suggestion.

Luxurexus

Thanks Spencer your a life saver. I tried cleaning out everything today but did not have this diagram, I will retry in the morning and try and target the important areas.

SpencerT

Not a problem.
here is my source if what I gave you isnt enough.
http://www.autoshop101.com/forms/h18.pdf

good luck