A/T - Shifter loose/Can't Remove Key From Ignition

Section Title: Transmission

TSB No: TS 09 03129R

Division: Automotive

Category: Technical

SUBJECT:
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION SHIFT LEVER IS LOOSE IN THE SHIFT GATE AND/OR IGNITION KEY CANNOT BE REMOVED

MODEL(S):
FORENZA SEDAN/WAGON, RENO (RQ420)

YEAR:
ALL

CONDITION:
The transmission gear shift lever does not hold firmly to the left of the shift gate as expected. This could result in the ignition key release solenoid not releasing the ignition key.

CAUSE:
The shift lever tension spring has broken.

CORRECTION:
DO NOT replace the gear shift lever assembly! Replace the shift lever tension spring. See instructions below.





PART(S) INFORMATION





WARRANTY CLAIM INFORMATION

Inspection and Replacement:

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and apply the parking brake. Shift the transmission to "L" and shut of the engine.





2. Dis-connect the battery negative cable.

3. Move both front seats to the full forward position and remove the screws located on both sides of the rear section of the center console. There will be one screw on each side of the center console.





4. Slide the front seats to their full rearward position and remove the two screws from the front section of the center console. There will be one screw on each side of the center console.





5. Slide the rear console back far enough to expose the two screws that secure the front center console.





6. With the gear selector still in the "L" position, lift the front center console up and toward the rear of the vehicle.





7. Continue to lift the console while maneuvering it around the shifter and parking brake levers.





8. Move the front center console aside. It is not necessary to disconnect the electrical connector.

9. Remove the four top screws holding the shift gate to the shifter assembly.





10. Move the gear shift to "Park" then lift and rotate the shifter gate 90 degrees to access the tension spring.





11. Remove the broken spring from the gear shift lever and position detent rail as needed.

12. Install the new spring. Gently move the shift lever to the left of the vehicle to allow easy installation of the spring.








13. Re-align, attach and tighten down the shift gate. Be sure manual release is between the solenoid and the shift cable. Tighten the bolt 1/16th of a turn from seated.





14. Re-assemble the front and rear center console in reverse of dis-assembly. Be sure to not scratch the shifter knob when re-installing the front console.