Selector Switch Problem/Removing Center Console

[idreamofmazda]

Hello,

I have a problem with the selector switch in my 2004 Mazda 3, the park switch is not engaging when the transmission is placed into park, I have to put it into neural to start. I figure the switch isn’t broken, just not making contact with the actuator. I think this is an easy fix, if I can get the center console off. I removed the two screws under the storage compartment, and the back end of the center console moves up and down a bit, but I don’t know the next step, the front end doesn’t move, and I don’t wish to break anything. If anyone has experience in accessing the selector switch, or removing console, please post your advice. Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you.

[mit-gee-mui]

There's a little bit about taking apart the center console in here.
http://www.torontomazda3.ca/forum/showthread.php?t=11997

This link might be more helpful.
http://www.torontomazda3.ca/forum/showpost.php?p=71278&postcount=4



:)

[idreamofmazda]

Thanks for the info, I think I was able to fix the problem, if I can figure out how to post photos, I will post some instructions.

Thanks again.

[thesober]

Definitely post pics and instructions for this, i had this issue last year but had the dealership fix it for me.

[cwp_sedan]

You need to host the images oh a host site like photobucket.com

Then you can copy the IMG code into your post.

[idreamofmazda]

Park Switch Not Engaging – How Access, and Repair Park Selector Switch

Important, be sure the Parking brake is full engaged.

Pull off the cup holder assembly, but lifting just under the center storage lid.
http://www.geocities.com/zen77982/cupholder.jpg

Lift off the shift cover.
http://www.geocities.com/zen77982/shiftcover.jpg

Exposed will be the shift assembly, the gray cover will need to be removed (I didn’t know how to remove the shift knob, and just worked around it). From the right side, you will need to insert a small screwdriver under the locking clips; I ended up using a flat blade from a detachable screwdriver, as I needed something short, and a small screwdriver. Lift under the front one first, as I found this one to be more difficult to remove, one both sides are lifted; the cover can be removed (might take a bit of effort). Turn the cover sideways if the shift knob was still in place.
http://www.geocities.com/zen77982/shiftassembly.jpg

Take a look at the front of the shift assembly and a mechanical lever, there should be a small switch, with the key in the Run position, apply the brake, and gently shift the transmission into Neutral, you should be able to see the mechanical lever move away from the switch. Watch the gear selector on the dash to see if the switches are working properly. My problem was the switch wasn’t fully closing when in park. Before making an adjustment to the switch, turn the key to the Off position, you can’t remove the key unless in Park. Using a small needle-nose pliers, gently bend the metal actuator, at the bend, to the right, don’t over bend; you can always try again if you didn’t go far enough. Only bend the round part, as you are looking to increase the span, and bending the straight part may not help.
http://www.geocities.com/zen77982/parkswitch.jpg

Test the system again by turning the key to the Run position, and selecting the gears, and reassemble in reverse. I had a little problem with the black dust cover from the shift cover, had to bend it a bit to fit it under the ashtray assembly.

Any questions please let me know.

[idreamofmazda]

Definitely post pics and instructions for this, i had this issue last year but had the dealership fix it for me.


Update - This didn't fix the problem, there must be another switch somewhere else? It seams to work better when taken apart, but stops working when reassembled.

How much did it cost to have fixed, and what dealer did you go to?

Thanks.

[Jeff-TheBiz]

No warranty left?

[thesober]

Update - This didn't fix the problem, there must be another switch somewhere else? It seams to work better when taken apart, but stops working when reassembled.

How much did it cost to have fixed, and what dealer did you go to?

Thanks.

Went to downtown mazda and they replaced the inhibitor switch/neutral safety switch. I think the cost was $150ish all in.