[rpgrayso]

Hi folks. I'm having a problem with the reverse lockout on my Element. It does not work when you step on the brakes and try to shift from Park to Reverse. I can manually release the lock using a screwdriver per the procedure in the owner's manual. My brake lights work fine. So I suspect there is a problem with a relay or lockout solenoid somewhere, rather than the brake light switch. Also, you do not hear any "click" or anything when you depress the brake pedal.

I'll admit right now that I probably caused this myself by cleaning the engine compartment with water. The problem began right after I did this. I've since dried out the engine compartment with compressed air, and also put a box fan on the engine compartment overnight. But, it still doesn't work. I guess I've learned my lesson about mixing water and electronics.

I would appreciate any info on the location of any related relay or solenoid, or if there is any other possible cause for the problem. And yes, I've ordered a service manual. Thanks.

Richard

 

[rpgrayso]

I'll check it out.

Zack - Thanks for the helpful info. I'll investigate and post what I find.

Richard

 

[rpgrayso]

It's fixed

First, let me once again thank Zack for posting a phenomenally comprehensive set of information on the lockout mechanism and related circuits and modules.

So, I print out all the info and begin to study it. I'm thinking sheesh, there's more to it than just a switch, relay, fuse, and solenoid....better allow the better part of the upcoming weekend to tackle this. Now I know why I prefer older cars, as they're a lot simpler. (My family has a 1997 CRV, 1999 Accord, and I have two german cars -- 1986 and 1988.)

Anyway, my wife has been using a screwdriver to release the lock for the last three days. She comes home and mentions "Hey honey, I forgot to use the screwdriver today, and it shifted right out of Park."

Hallelujah! Guess I got lucky on this one. I surmise it needed several days to dry out. Surprising since I put a big fan on it for 12 hours at first to no avail. In any event I'm going to file this info away for now....and also keep the garden hose away from the engine.

Richard