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

Section Title: Transmission

TSB No: TS 04 03049

Division: Automotive

Category: Technical

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

MODEL(S):
VERONA (RP625)

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 igniting 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 off the engine.





2. Open the center console storage cover using the passenger side latch release.





3. Remove the center console storage box by squeezing one side, and then pulling straight up.





4. Remove the three indicated screws.





5. Unlock the shifter knob retaining ring by rotating it counterclockwise looking from above. It will rotate approximately 1/4 turn.





6. Lift the shifter knob straight up. It may require slightly twisting and pulling at the same time.





7. Loosen the gear indicator trim by using a plastic trim removal tool to avoid scratches on the console.





8. Lift the gear indicator trim and remove the gear indicator lamp. Set the trim aside and move the lamp away from your work space.





9. Remove the console trim lifting from the rear first and work towards the front.





10. Release the wire for the shift lock solenoid from the anchor.





11. Remove four shift gate bolts.





12. Remove the broken spring from the gear shift lever and position detent rail.





13. Install the new spring. Gently move the shift lever toward the left side of the vehicle, allowing easy installation of the spring.





14. Re-align, attach and tighten down the shift gate. Tighten the bolt 1/16th of a turn from seated.

15. Reposition the shift lock solenoid wires removed from step 11.

16. Position the center console facia over the shift lever and tuck the wire harnesses into the console away from any movable area of the shifter.





17. Re-attach the facia to the console starting at the front. The front section of the facia will have to be carefully positioned between the radio facia and the manual shift lock release.





18. Snap the console facia back into place and tighten down with three previously removed screws.

19. Re-insert the console box.





20. Re-attach the gear indicator lamp to the gear indicator trim.

21. Tuck the gear indicator lamp harness into the slot.

22. Snap the gear indicator trim back onto the facia.





23. Re-attach the shifter knob to the shaft. Completely seat the knob to the shaft to its original position.





24. Rotate the lock ring clockwise as viewed from the top to lock the shift knob in place.

25. Verify proper operation of the transmission shift lever, indicator, and lighting.

26. Repair is complete.