Automatic Transmission Shift Lock Control Description & Operation (Column Shift)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Cadillac DTS. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The automatic transmission shift lock control system is a safety device that prevents an inadvertent shift out of PARK when the engine is running. The driver must press the brake pedal before moving the shift lever out of the PARK position. The system consists of the following components:

The automatic transmission shift lock solenoid (serviced as the automatic transmission shift lock actuator), as well as the body control module (BCM) and the engine control module (ECM).The shift lock solenoid is located within the steering column assembly with vehicles equipped with column shift.
The BCM controls the voltage supply circuit of the shift lock control solenoid. The following conditions must be met before the BCM will supply voltage to the shift lock control solenoid.

The ignition is in the ON position.
The ECM sends an input via GMLAN serial data to the BCM indicating the transmission is in the PARK position.
The BCM determines the brake pedal is not applied according the brake pedal position.

Since the shift lock control solenoid is permanently grounded, the BCM supplies voltage to the automatic transmission shift lock control solenoid, mechanically locking the shift lever in the PARK position as the solenoid energizes. When the brake pedal is applied, the BCM turns the control voltage output of the shift lock control solenoid OFF, de-energizing the shift lock control solenoid. The de-energized solenoid releases the mechanical lock allowing the driver to move the shift lever out of the PARK position.

During remote start operation, the BCM will energize the shift lock control circuit, locking the shift lever in the PARK position.