Why can't I get my 2002 Honda Accord out of park?

there is a shift interlock system on that car that will not allow you to take the car out of park unless your foot is on the brake. We know you have your foot on the brake but the control system for the shift interlock doesn't know that.

the control system monitors your brake lights to "see" that you have your foot on the brake. pedal. if the brake lights aren't working it won't let you take the gearshift out of park.

so first of all, check your brake lights. if they're not working that's your problem. the usual reason they don't work is because the switch at the top of the brake pedal lever that turns the lights on when you depress the pedal is either stuck or it has gone open circuited.

there is an emergency release for the shift interlock. there should be a rubber plug about 1/4" long at the top and to the left of the gearshift lever. that rubber plug pulls out and you can insert the tip of the ignition key into the slot and push down to release the shift interlock. then as you are pushing down, take the gearshift out of park, move it to neutral then remove your key and start the car.

if you can't find the plug then you have the older style but that's not a problem. the release is still there but you have to take off the rectangular plate that is on top of the console tht goes around the gearshift. the plate just prys up with a screwdriver or a nail file. I think on the older style the gearshift release slot is to the right of the gearshift.

Edit: I just checked the owner's manual page 216--you have the rubber plug to the top left of the gearshift on your car. just pry the plug up and remove it to insert the key and release the shift lever

don't worry, its easy to take up. you won't be stranded.

hope that helps

Honda 2002

Are you pushing on the brake pedal when you mess with the gear shift? You could try turning the key on and moving the gear shift while the key is on - try taking it out of park and putting it back into park.

alls well electronically can hear solenoid click when key is turned and lever moved trans oil ok xtra pressure on brake pedal seemed to activate after pumpup have left in neutral for diagnostic tech will let youall know who it went asap rusty

Is the steering wheel hard to move?Some cars have a anti theft system.Try having someone strong turn the steering wheel if It"s locked.I hope this helps

Press the brake peddle while using the shift. I can't think of anything else. Take it to a mechanic.

Try putting in the key and starting, then turning the wheel hard both ways....it may just be a locked steering wheel.

I or my mom just had this same issue.the gear was locked.lights lite up.I had her mess with the breaks and pump a few times and it released it.hope that helps someone.we're stuck in the rain and thank God something worked!!!!

Try pushing down on the brake pedal while pushing the release button.

This old thread saved me $150 labor and probably $75 for parts... Autozone $25.. 9mm open end wrench and 5 mins under the dash it was fixed!! Thanks all who contributed.