OK, I have encountered my first real problem. I get in my car and I start her up, step on the brake pedal, and when I try to shift out of Park into reverse I cannot. So I take my ignition key and stick it in the slot next to the shifter and put it in neutral. Then it starts up.

What peeves me is that there is a slot for such an occasion and the owner's maual explains what to do if my problem ever arises. It's like Acura expects or plans for this to happen. So what do you guys think it is?? Has this ever happened to you before??

I appreciate any feedback on the matter.

 

nope..........I would be really pissed off if that happened to me

 

Sounds like you have a problem with the shift interlock mechinism. It's a safety feature that came out of the Audi 5000 "sudden acceleration" issue. It's intended to make sure that your foot is on the brake before you shift into gear, but you probably knew all of that already.

as for you comment:

Almost all cars have the "slot" or an override of some sort so that you are not left stranded in events such as yours.

Should be a relatively minor repair, albeit inconvenient.

It's not specific to Acura, I've heard of these switches going bad before.

 

Thanks goaub! I drove a 1976 Camaro before this, so I have ZERO experience with such devices. I wouldn't think it is a big deal. Watch it costs hundreds of dollars.

 

No problem.

Is it still under warranty? If so, it's covered. If not, I'm curious as to the cost. Let us know.