2008 mazda cx 7 shift lock release

  • #1

My gearbox in my CX-9 is locked and I can't move it from (P). I am sure there is a way to override the shift lock, any clues? (uhm)

BTW, I already checked all fuses and all are ok.

Many thanks.

  • #2

My gearbox in my CX-9 is locked and I can't move it from (P). I am sure there is a way to override the shift lock, any clues? (uhm)

BTW, I already checked all fuses and all are ok.

Many thanks.

Isn't there a little cover flap by the shifter for manual overrides if the shifter is stuck, I know every one of my previous vehicles had this, need a small screwdriver to pop open the cover to gain access to the manual override, then with the screwdriver push back the spring then shift.

If not, I did come across this online, hopes this helps

http://ww2.justanswer.com/uploads/ChryslerTech20/2012-04-12_181603_170013709.jpg

  • #3

I remember having this problem with my previous vehicle a ford. There is an override in the console. I was wondering though because the cause of this problem on the ford was the boo switch. (Brake light on and off ) which is connected to the brake pedal. Once I replaced that switch the problem was solved. I don't know if the 9 has that switch also, it would be a good idea to check since the part is not expensive.

  • #4

I tried above steps but couldn't solve the problem

This is the video:

I removed that white clip but nothing happend!

Any clue!?

  • #5

EDIT: Nevermind, saw you went well past what I was suggesting. Not really sure what to try next, sorry.

Last edited: May 20, 2016

Shift Lock Solenoid Replacement

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2008 mazda cx 7 shift lock release

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  1. AutoGuru
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  4. CX-7
  5. Shift lock solenoid replacement

Mazda CX-7 shift lock solenoid replacement

Can’t get your Mazda CX-7 out of park? Maybe the shift lock (or interlock) solenoid has died.

It’s one of those gizmos that you don’t know about until it stops you getting from A to B.

This little mechanism is connected to your brake pedal and locks the transmission on your Mazda if you don’t have your foot on the brake.

When the shift lock solenoid fails, which it can with age and wear, you won’t be able to get out of park.

It’s a gadget used in your Mazda CX-7’s automatic transmission, that stops you from doing something silly, like shifting out of park when the brake is not engaged and the ignition is on.

Book in with a mechanic on AutoGuru to get your Mazda CX-7 back on the road! 

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How much does a Car does not shift from park to drive Inspection cost?

On average, the cost for a Mazda CX-7 Car does not shift from park to drive Inspection is $95 with $0 for parts and $95 for labor. Prices may vary depending on your location.

CarServiceEstimateShop/Dealer Price
2012 Mazda CX-7L4-2.5L Service typeCar does not shift from park to drive Inspection Estimate$114.99 Shop/Dealer Price$124.99 - $132.49
2008 Mazda CX-7L4-2.3L Turbo Service typeCar does not shift from park to drive Inspection Estimate$94.99 Shop/Dealer Price$105.01 - $112.52
2012 Mazda CX-7L4-2.3L Turbo Service typeCar does not shift from park to drive Inspection Estimate$94.99 Shop/Dealer Price$105.01 - $112.52
2011 Mazda CX-7L4-2.3L Turbo Service typeCar does not shift from park to drive Inspection Estimate$94.99 Shop/Dealer Price$104.99 - $112.48
2009 Mazda CX-7L4-2.3L Turbo Service typeCar does not shift from park to drive Inspection Estimate$94.99 Shop/Dealer Price$105.02 - $112.55
2007 Mazda CX-7L4-2.3L Turbo Service typeCar does not shift from park to drive Inspection Estimate$94.99 Shop/Dealer Price$105.01 - $112.52
2011 Mazda CX-7L4-2.5L Service typeCar does not shift from park to drive Inspection Estimate$99.99 Shop/Dealer Price$109.87 - $117.28
2010 Mazda CX-7L4-2.3L Turbo Service typeCar does not shift from park to drive Inspection Estimate$99.99 Shop/Dealer Price$110.24 - $117.94

Show example Mazda CX-7 Car does not shift from park to drive Inspection prices

You start the car up, put your foot the brake, push the button on the shifter and it won’t shift out of park. What do you do now? Don’t force the shifter. Forcing the shifter out of park may cause more damage. The shifter is connected to the transmission in some cars mechanically or electronically. If an electrical or mechanical component has failed between the shifter and transmission, you won’t be able to shift the car out of park. A top-rated mobile mechanic will come to your home or office to diagnose the problem with your vehicle. The mechanic will then provide an inspection report detailing the scope and cost of the necessary repairs

When to have your shifter inspected or replaced:

Have this system inspected only when a part in the shifter or part of the system that operates the transmission breaks] . There is no scheduled time frame for replacing parts in the shifting system. However, all parts can wear out and have the potential to fail, and in a perfect situation, all the parts in the shifting system would last the life of the vehicle.

Symptoms that may indicate your shifter will fail include:

  • Shifter can be moved but has a lot of resistance
  • When shifting into a gear, drive or reverse, it feels difficult to find the right spot. The transmission ends up in neutral instead. You may notice that the engine will accelerate when stepping on the gas pedal but the car doesn’t move.
  • When starting the car with the key, the ignition cylinder feels loose and has play.
  • No brake lights in the vehicle, brake pedal switch could be faulty.
  • Shifter feels completely loose -- like it’s not connected to the transmission at all.

How a mechanic will inspect a car that won’t shift from park:

There are a number of reasons why a car will not move from park to drive. They can range from the shifter being locked to a broken shifter cable. Mechanics will check for these things:

  • Failed brake light switch

  • Bad shift interlock solenoid or wiring: The shift interlock solenoid is a safety feature that has been added to all modern automatic-transmission cars. It prevents the driver from shifting out of park without a foot on the brake.

  • Broken transmission shift cable: A cable connects the shifter handle to the transmission, and if that is broken, the shifter will be inoperable

  • Ignition key tumbler is worn out: The ignition switch not only starts your car, but it also locks the steering wheel when the key is taken out. In cars with automatic transmissions, a shift interlock solenoid is also part of the ignition system, and it locks the transmission so it cannot be shifted out of park (as described above).

  • Broken shifter mechanism: It is also possible that the shifter itself is broken. A mechanic will remove the center console to examine the actual shifter mechanism.

Is it safe to drive with this problem?

Since you can’t move the car without shifting from park to drive, it’s important to enlist the help of one of our mechanics as soon as possible to inspect and then repair the issue.

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Where is the shift lock release button?

Locating and Using Shift Lock Release The most common spot for the shift lock release button is near the P (park position) of the gear lever. You'll notice a tiny square shift lock cover, which is labeled as such in select brands like Hyundai.

How do I put my Mazda CX 7 in neutral?

If you have an automatic, simply move the gear selector to the N position. If you have a manual transmission, just depress the clutch and slip your CX-7 out of gear. You might even give the stick shift a little wiggle just to be sure it's disengaged.

Where is the shift lock override slot?

Find the shifter lock override slot, which is usually located on the shifter console close to the shift lever. The slot will be plugged with a plastic cap. Remove the cap and push down on the button with a nail file or other pointed object.