2008 Subaru Outback Base, AutomaticFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Select Lever Cannot Be Shifted

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 Subaru Outback and 2007 Subaru Legacy. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Fig 1: Select Lever Cannot Be Shifted - Circuit Diagram
G05341792Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
DTC CHART

Step Check Yes No
1 CHECK OUTPUT SIGNAL OF BODY INTEGRATED UNIT USING SUBARU SELECT MONITOR. 
  1. Turn the ignition switch to OFF.
  2. Connect the Subaru Select Monitor to the data link connector.
  3. Turn the ignition switch and run the Subaru Select Monitor.
  4. Read the output signal of shift lock solenoid from the Subaru Select Monitor.

    <Ref. to OPERATION , Subaru Select Monitor .>

Is "OFF" displayed? Go to step 4.  Go to step 2. 
2 CHECK OUTPUT SIGNAL OF BODY INTEGRATED UNIT USING SUBARU SELECT MONITOR. 
Read the input signal of stop light switch from Subaru Select Monitor. <Ref. to OPERATION , Subaru Select Monitor .>
Is "OFF" displayed? Go to step 4.  Go to step 3. 
3 CHECK STOP LIGHT SWITCH INPUT SIGNAL. 
  1. Turn the ignition switch to OFF.
  2. Disconnect the connector from body integrated unit.
  3. Turn the ignition switch to ON.
  4. Measure the voltage between body integrated unit and chassis ground.

    Connector & terminal 

    (B281) No. 23 (+) - Chassis ground (-): 

Is the voltage 9 V or more? Check the stop light system. Check the body integrated unit.
4 CHECK SHIFT LOCK SOLENOID OUTPUT VOLTAGE. 
  1. Turn the ignition switch to OFF.
  2. Disconnect the connector of shift lock solenoid.
  3. Turn the ignition switch to ON.
  4. Measure the voltage between the shift lock solenoid connector and chassis ground.

    Connector & terminal 

    (B116) No. 3 (+) - Chassis ground (-): 

Is the voltage 9 V or more? Go to step 5.  Check the shift lock solenoid unit.
5 CHECK SHIFT LOCK SOLENOID OUTPUT VOLTAGE. 
  1. Turn the ignition switch to OFF.
  2. Disconnect the connector from body integrated unit.
  3. Turn the ignition switch to ON.
  4. Measure the voltage between the shift lock solenoid connector terminal and chassis ground.

    Connector & terminal 

    (B116) No. 3 (+) - Chassis ground (-): 

Is the voltage 9 V or more? Go to step 6.  Check the body integrated unit.
6 CHECK SHIFT LOCK SOLENOID OUTPUT VOLTAGE. 
  1. Turn the ignition switch to OFF.
  2. Disconnect the connector from TCM.
  3. Turn the ignition switch to ON.
  4. Measure the voltage between the shift lock solenoid connector terminal and chassis ground.

    Connector & terminal 

    (B116) No. 3 (+) - Chassis ground (-): 

Is the voltage 9 V or more? Repair or replace the shorted circuit of harness between body integrated unit and shift lock solenoid. Check the TCM.
Factory Service Tools

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.

Disclosure: Verified tool recommendations may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.

When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.

Rather have a pro handle this?

A certified mobile mechanic comes to your home or office. They bring the tools, you stay comfortable. No tow truck, no waiting room, no surprises.

Comes to youSame-day available12-month warranty
Get a Free Quote

No obligation. See pricing before you book.