Shift Lock Control

The shift lock control system reduces the risk of unintentional engine starting. Starting the engine is possible only in P and N, and the shift lever cannot be shifted out of P without pressing the brake pedal and releasing the accelerator. The shift lock mechanism consists of the shift lock solenoid, shift lock stop, shift lock release, and related parts. The shift lock solenoid is electronically controlled by the shift lock control system signals.

In P without pressing the brake pedal or while pressing the accelerator, the shift lock solenoid remains OFF, and the shift lever cannot be shifted out of P because the shift lock stop stops the lock pin. However while the brake pedal is pressed and the accelerator is released, the shift lock solenoid is turned ON, and the shift lock solenoid plunger is retracted, releasing the shift lock stop. Pushing the shift lever button passes the lock pin through the shift lock stop, and allows the shift lever to be shifted out of P.

Fig 1: Identifying Shift Lock Control Components

Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.

When a shift lock control system malfunction or a mechanical problem occurs, the shift lever can be shifted out of P temporarily by pressing the shift lock release with the ignition key or a screwdriver. Pushing the shift lock release releases the shift lock stop, and allows the shift lever to be shifted out of P.

Fig 2: Identifying Shift Lock Control Parts

Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.