The dreaded “Shift to Park” message flashing on your dashboard can turn a simple trip into a major headache. You’ve parked your car, but it refuses to shut off, leaving you stuck in the driver’s seat wondering what to do next. If you’re facing this common GM vehicle issue, don’t worry—you’re about to discover both quick fixes for when you’re in a hurry and permanent solutions to prevent this problem from happening again.
What Causes the “Shift to Park” Message?
The “Shift to Park” message appears when your GM vehicle’s electronic system fails to recognize that you’ve fully shifted into park position. Even though your shifter shows “P” and feels properly engaged, a faulty switch inside the shifter assembly is telling your vehicle’s computer otherwise.
The issue stems from a malfunctioning micro switch in the shifter assembly. Over time, the switch terminals can spread or wear down, breaking the proper electrical connection. This disconnect prevents your vehicle from confirming it’s safely in park, triggering the warning message and keeping your car running.
This problem affects numerous GM models from 2016-2023, including:
- Chevrolet Malibu
- Chevrolet Volt
- Chevrolet Traverse
- Chevrolet Blazer
- GMC Acadia
- Buick Encore GX
Warning Signs and Symptoms
The “Shift to Park” message doesn’t just appear randomly. Here are the telltale signs you’re dealing with this specific issue:
- Dashboard displays “Shift to Park” despite being in park
- Car won’t shut off completely
- Unable to remove the key (for models with physical keys)
- Can’t lock your car when walking away
- Battery drains if left unattended
- In some cases, your vehicle might not start at all
Left unaddressed, this issue can leave you stranded with a dead battery or unable to secure your vehicle—not ideal situations in any circumstance.
Quick Temporary Fixes When You’re Stuck
When you’re out and about and suddenly face this problem, try these temporary workarounds to get home:
1. The Button Trick
The most reliable temporary fix involves manipulating the shifter button:
- Put your car in park
- Press and release the button on the side of the shifter repeatedly
- Many owners report success after 10-20 quick presses
- Continue until the message disappears
2. The Gear Cycling Method
If the button trick isn’t working, try cycling through gears:
- Shift from park to reverse
- Return to park
- Repeat this sequence several times
- End in park position
The movement can sometimes help the switch make proper contact again.
3. The Shifter Jiggle
Another simple but effective approach:
- Keep your foot firmly on the brake
- Gently rock or jiggle the shifter while in park
- Apply slight pressure in different directions
This can temporarily improve the connection in the faulty switch.
4. Emergency Shutdown
If you absolutely need to exit your vehicle and the above methods aren’t working:
- Hold the power/start button for 10+ seconds
- This forces a shutdown, though it may trigger other warning lights
- Not recommended for regular use but works in emergencies
Remember, these are only temporary fixes. The problem will likely return until you implement a permanent solution.
Permanent Solutions for the Shift to Park Message
1. Official Dealership Repair
The authorized GM solution involves replacing the entire shifter assembly:
- Professional technicians disconnect the transmission range selector lever cable
- Remove the existing shifter assembly
- Install a new shifter assembly with a functioning park switch
- Recalibrate the system
Dealership repairs typically cost between $200-$500 depending on your vehicle model and labor rates. If your vehicle is still under warranty, this repair may be covered. According to GM Authority, dealers will diagnose this issue with trouble code B000A (“Park Switch – Shift Lever Position Not Plausible”).
2. GM’s Wiring Harness Fix
For some vehicles, GM has created a specific wiring harness (part #84733196) as outlined in Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 19-NA-206. This repair involves:
- Removing the center console
- Accessing the shifter assembly
- Installing an in-line shifter wire harness jumper
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has documented this official repair procedure, which costs less than full shifter replacement.
3. DIY Micro Switch Repair
For mechanically inclined owners looking to save money, the micro switch repair offers a budget-friendly solution:
- Remove the center console to access the shifter assembly
- Locate the micro switch inside (a small black component)
- Carefully bend the metal tab on the switch to improve contact
- Reassemble the console
This DIY approach costs only a few dollars in tools and parts but requires comfort working with small electronic components.
4. Wire Bridge Solution
Another user-reported fix involves creating a wire bridge:
- Access the shifter assembly
- Locate the connector on the rear of the shift block
- Install a U-shaped wire approximately 2 inches long
- This bridges the ground and signal cable
While effective, this solution should only be attempted by those with electrical experience.
Tools and Parts You’ll Need
Whether attempting a DIY fix or preparing for a dealer visit, understanding the components involved helps:
| Repair Method | Tools Required | Parts Required | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temporary Fixes | None | None | Free |
| Dealership Repair | N/A (professional service) | New shifter assembly | $200-$500 |
| GM Wiring Harness | Screwdrivers, trim tools | GM part #84733196 | $80-$150 |
| DIY Micro Switch | Small screwdrivers, pliers | None (adjustment only) | $5-$10 |
| Wire Bridge | Wire cutters, pliers | Electrical wire | $5-$15 |
Step-by-Step DIY Micro Switch Repair
For those comfortable with DIY repairs, here’s a detailed breakdown of the micro switch fix:
- Prepare Your Vehicle
- Park on level ground
- Engage parking brake
- Disconnect battery negative terminal
- Access the Shifter Assembly
- Remove trim pieces around shifter (varies by model)
- Unscrew and remove the center console
- Locate the shifter mechanism
- Find the Micro Switch
- Look for a small black switch on the side of the shifter assembly
- It’s typically positioned near where the shifter’s “park” position would engage
- Adjust the Switch
- Using small pliers or a flathead screwdriver
- Carefully bend the metal contact tab slightly (1-2mm)
- The goal is to ensure better contact when the shifter is in park
- Test Before Reassembly
- Reconnect the battery temporarily
- Test the shifter by putting it in park
- If the message no longer appears, you’ve fixed the issue
- Reassemble
- Disconnect battery again for safety
- Replace all components in reverse order
- Reconnect battery and test again
This repair has proven successful for many owners according to YouTube tutorials.
Warranty and Legal Considerations
The “Shift to Park” issue has become so widespread that it’s prompted legal action. Here’s what you should know:
- Multiple class action lawsuits have been filed against GM regarding this defect
- The Lemon Law Experts report that plaintiffs argue GM should issue a full recall
- Many owners have successfully argued for warranty coverage even on vehicles just outside the warranty period
- If your repair was denied under warranty, keep documentation for potential future class action settlements
Preventing Future Shift to Park Problems
After fixing your current issue, these practices may help prevent recurrence:
- Avoid forcing the shifter into position
- Shift deliberately and smoothly
- Consider preemptively applying the DIY fix to reinforce the micro switch
- Keep your battery healthy, as voltage fluctuations can sometimes trigger electronic glitches
Impact on Vehicle Safety and Performance
Beyond the inconvenience, the “Shift to Park” issue presents several concerns:
- Battery Health: Repeated instances of inability to shut off your vehicle can significantly shorten battery life
- Security Risk: If your vehicle can’t properly shut down, it may be vulnerable to theft
- Safety Concerns: In rare cases, vehicles not properly registered as being in park could present rollaway risks
- Resale Value: Documented electrical issues can impact your vehicle’s resale value
Real-World Owner Experiences
GM vehicle owners consistently report similar experiences with this issue:
“I was stuck in a parking lot for 30 minutes trying everything until I found the button-pressing trick. It’s ridiculous this hasn’t been recalled yet.” – Chevrolet Malibu owner
“After three dealer visits with temporary fixes, I finally did the micro switch repair myself. It’s been six months without issues.” – GMC Acadia owner
“The dealer quoted me $400 for the repair out of warranty. I showed them the technical service bulletin and they reduced it to $150.” – Chevrolet Volt owner
Understanding the Technical Side
For those interested in the mechanical details, here’s what’s happening inside your shifter:
The park detection system uses a micro switch that closes an electrical circuit when the shifter is properly in park. This sends a signal to the body control module (BCM) confirming safe parking position.
Over time, the switch contacts wear down or spread apart, creating an intermittent connection. The BCM interprets this as the vehicle not being fully in park, triggering the warning message and preventing shutdown.
The official GM repair replaces the entire assembly, while DIY fixes focus on restoring proper contact in the existing switch—either through physical adjustment or electrical bypassing.
When to Take Action
If you’re experiencing the “Shift to Park” message:
- Immediate action needed: If you can’t shut off your vehicle or it’s getting stuck regularly
- Plan a repair soon: If the issue happens occasionally but temporary fixes work
- Preventative measures: If you own an affected model but haven’t seen the issue yet
Remember, ignoring this problem can lead to battery drain, leaving you stranded at inconvenient times.
The prevalence of this issue across multiple GM models suggests it’s a design flaw rather than individual vehicle defects. As documented by NHTSA, the problem is widespread enough to warrant official technical service bulletins.
