Where is the Shift Interlock Solenoid Located?

Q: Where is the Shift Interlock Solenoid Typically Located?

A: Usually, the shift interlock solenoid can be found underneath the vehicle’s shifter console, or on column shift vehicles, it’ll be at the base of the steering column as part of the shift linkage.

The shift interlock solenoid prevents the gear shift lever from moving unless the driver pushes the brake pedal. Without it, drivers wouldn’t be able to move the gear shift lever out of the park position, so it’s imperative that the shift interlock solenoid is functional.

This is a safety feature to prevent the driver from putting the transmission in reverse with their foot on the accelerator, which can cause the vehicle to careen out of control. The faster it goes in reverse, the more the driver’s foot is driven toward wide open throttle.

This happened back in the mid-1990s on some Audi vehicles that tended to take off in reverse and crash when placed in reverse, and it was determined to be driver error. The shift interlock solenoid then became a necessary feature.

Tips on How to Access the Shift Interlock Solenoid

Accessing the shift interlock solenoid can be tricky. You’ll need to remove the center console if you want to reach the solenoid, or on a column shift, you may need to remove the knee bolster.

Sometimes the shift interlock solenoid locks up when contaminants leak down to the shifter console, like if you spill coffee. If this happens, clean it and other contaminated components with a Q-tip and either a cleaning solution or alcohol. Once it’s clean, you can run some tests with your vehicle to determine whether or not it still needs replacement, or if the part is damaged.