The Lexus shift lock override button involves a complex system.
In fact, automatic transmissions nowadays have more intricacies as compared to manual transmission vehicles in the past. This is why today, we will cover key facts about the shift lock button and important information you should know about it.
Keep reading to have a better understanding of this shift lock, some issues that come with it, and other details that can impact your overall driving experience. Let’s jump right into it.
Lexus Shift Lock Override Button
Automatic vehicles come with intricate control systems. Each of these have various operation modes depending on the operation condition. With all of these moving parts that complicate the vehicle even more, there are some drawbacks to keep in mind.
For instance, there are various microcircuits and sensors that tend to fail and are more prone to damage. Conditions such as overheating, moisture, and vibrations cause these components to malfunction. Hence, it is important to know how to deal with these systems.
Aside from the main mode in automatics such as the P, R, N, and D, there are now other modes added for further functions. Overdrive refers to the capacity for you to place the setting in the highest gear. Also, there is the shift lock button, which you may be wondering what it is for.
In the case of the shift lock button, this is positioned near the gear level or the P gear. When you press this button, it allows the transmission to continue its normal operation. Hence, the RPM remains the same and the gears are able to shift in a smoother manner. You also will not notice any icons illuminating on your dashboard.
If you are wondering why your Lexus vehicle even has this shift lock button, the answer is simple. Unlike the overdrive, this button is not at all a special driving mode. It does not have an impact on your gearbox operation. What it does, instead, is to remove the lock forcefully when your transmission is set in the P mode. Then, it puts your gearbox in another gear when you have the engine turned off.
When you have the shaft lock in your transmission actuated, this happens if the selector is placed in the P gear. Then, it is not possible for you to move your lever unless you press your brake pedal.
In this case, shift lock becomes quite useful. This button lets you unlock your transmission gear shaft. Then, you can place the lever into the N position. You will find this useful when your engine is unable to start or you have an issue with your gearbox. With that being said, your shift lock button is helpful for unlocking your transmission or putting it out of the P position.
Additionally, the shift lock button is functional during the maintenance of your vehicle. If your gear shifting system is out of order, mechanics from the repair shop can easily shift the gears through the shift lock.
It is also worth noting that the shift lock is not implemented through any special button. Instead, there is a key hole near your gear lever, which is basically an analog of the button. So, when you need to unlock your transmission, you need to insert your ignition key right into the key hole.
Shift Lock Button Issues
In the event that you have a malfunctioning shift lock button, you need to perform a few steps to get the problem sorted out. First, you need to check your power source to your shift interlock. Then, you can inspect the fuse to see if it is blown.
Now, if your shift lock button fails, you first need to locate it and then open it. While holding the slot open, shift to the neutral position. This will cause your shifter to go into the D position as you release your parking brake and start the engine. Then, you need to repair that faulty shift lock button.
When engaging to the next gear, you need to push your shift lock button completely. It is possible that the button is unable to function unless you first release your emergency brake. If so, you need to have the car repaired. You need to realize that failure to your shift lock button can also happen when you have a faulty transmission. This is why it is best to have an expert look into this problem sooner than later.
Next, you may also want to consider a potential problem with your shift lock control module. If there is no change at all in 15 seconds after getting into the program mode, you can conclude that your shift lock module is faulty. It may be caused by an internal part issue or a faulty wire harness.
You can get this fixed yourself or have a mechanic address this issue.
We also recommend checking if you have a blown fuse, which is a possible culprit when your shift lock button is not working. The shifter may not release unless you turn your key and press on the brake pedal. If so, you have a blown fuse. Thankfully, this is an inexpensive fix since you can easily buy replacement fuses for a few dollars.
However, if the issue is not the fuse, it may also be a problem with a faulty shift interlock solenoid. This is the case with flashing brake lights. Check the component with a digital multimeter and determine if this is indeed the problematic part.
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Final Thoughts
The shift lock button serves numerous functions in adding convenience and comfort in your driving. However, when this function does not work as it should, it is best to have the problem checked further to ensure that no other issues are present, which can lead to more repairs to be done.