Hi all,

I have a 2001 Magna 3.5l Auto and I am having problems putting it into park. I have to play around with the button a bit and when I get it right it slips right into P.

Is the issue just with the button on the knob or is it as the mechanic said a problem on the gearbox linkage who wanted $500 to fix.

I have read on other forums simalar problems with dirt and gunk getting in the way, is this my problem?

If its just a problem with the button is this an easy fix and can you guide me to where I can find info on how to remove the selector.

Thanks in advance.

Clean the linkages first before paying a mech $500. Unlikely to be a button issue.

Could be the little park pin in the trans is on its way out. People don't realise that the proper way to engage park after stopping and ESP on an incline is to:
1. Shift to N.
2. Apply hand brake.
3. Release foot brake and let park brake take the weight.
R. Apply foot brake again and shift to P.

Doing it this way will reduce wear on the said pin and also make it easier to shift out off P later.

Could be the little park pin in the trans is on its way out. People don't realise that the proper way to engage park after stopping and ESP on an incline is to:
1. Shift to N.
2. Apply hand brake.
3. Release foot brake and let park brake take the weight.
R. Apply foot brake again and shift to P.

Doing it this way will reduce wear on the said pin and also make it easier to shift out off P later.

I've seen people do the opposite ie shift into park, let the car settle down a slope, then put on the hand brake. Really makes it hard to shift out of park later. Can even make the shift cable distort/pull out of it's anchor on the gearbox. (Car that did this wasn't a Magna, so don't panic. lol)