2008 Subaru Outback Base, AutomaticFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Shift Lock Operation

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.
SHIFT LOCK OPERATION

Step Check Yes No
1 CHECK SHIFT LOCK. 
  1. Turn the ignition switch to ON.
  2. Shift the select lever to the "P" range.
While brake pedal is not depressed, is it possible to move the select lever from the "P" range to other ranges? Inspect "SELECT LEVER CANNOT BE SHIFT LOCKED". <Ref. to SELECT LEVER CANNOT BE SHIFTED  , INSPECTION, AT Shift Lock Control System .> Go to step 2. 
2 CHECK SHIFT LOCK.  While brake pedal is depressed, is it possible to move the select lever from the "P" range to other ranges? Go to step 3.  Inspect "SELECT LEVER SHIFT LOCK CANNOT BE RELEASED". <Ref. to SHIFT LOCK OF SELECT LEVER CANNOT BE RELEASED  , INSPECTION, AT Shift Lock Control System .>
3 CHECK KEY INTERLOCK.  When the select lever is set to other than "P" range, can the ignition switch be turned to the "LOCK" position? Go to step 4.  Go to step 5. 
4 CHECK BACKUP POWER SUPPLY CIRCUIT. 
Inspect the backup power supply circuit. <Ref. to BODY INTEGRATED UNIT POWER SUPPLY AND GROUND CIRCUIT  , INSPECTION, AT Shift Lock Control System .>
Is the backup power supply circuit operating properly? Perform the inspection of "KEY INTERLOCK DOES NOT BE LOCKED OR RELEASED". <Ref. to SHIFT LOCK OF SELECT LEVER CANNOT BE RELEASED  , INSPECTION, AT Shift Lock Control System .> Repair the backup power supply circuit.
5 CHECK KEY INTERLOCK.  When the select lever is in the "P" range, can the ignition switch be turned to the "LOCK" position? AT shift lock system is normal. Perform the inspection of "KEY INTERLOCK DOES NOT BE LOCKED OR RELEASED". <Ref. to SHIFT LOCK OF SELECT LEVER CANNOT BE RELEASED  , INSPECTION, AT Shift Lock Control System .>
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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.

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