Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Automatic Transmission Shift Interlock Systems: Description: Introduction
Transmission is equipped with a electronically controlled shift lock and key lock system. See Fig 1. Shift lock system prevents shift lever from being moved from Park unless brake pedal is depressed. In case of a malfunction, shift lever can be released by depressing shift lock override button, located near shift lever. Key lock system prevents ignition key from being moved from ACC to LOCK position on ignition switch unless shift lever is in Park.
System consists of brakelight switch, key interlock solenoid, shift lock control switch (all models except ES300, Paseo and Tercel), shift lock Electronic Control Unit (ECU), shift lock solenoid and shift lock override button. See Fig 1.
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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.