Shift Interlock
The shift interlock prevents moving the gear selector out of P unless the brake pedal is pressed.
What is Shift Interlock?
It is a safety system that stops the car from moving off unexpectedly. It uses a solenoid controlled by the brake light switch. Most cars have a manual override slot. Some cars also have a key interlock that prevents removing the key unless P is selected.
How it works
When the brake is pressed, the solenoid releases the lock and the selector can move.
Why it matters for your car
If the selector is stuck in P, check the brake lights; a faulty brake switch is a common cause. Use the override only to move the car safely.
Other terms
- Anti-squeal Shims (Brake Pad Shims)
- Backfire
- Blocking Fee (Idle Fee)
- Blow-off Valve (Diverter Valve)
- Bore And Stroke
- Crumple Zone
- CV Joint (Constant Velocity Joint)
- Directional Tyres
- ECU (Engine Control Unit)
- Gasoline Particulate Filter (GPF/OPF)
- Mass Air Flow Sensor (MAF)
- Oil Pressure Warning Light
- Power Steering
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Second-life Battery
- Sensor Ground (Signal Ground)
- Supercharger
- Thermal Runaway
- Vehicle History Report
- Wireless EV Charging (Inductive Charging)