"Derek Lawler" <dereksl2@bellsouth.net> wrote in message
news:gnUtk.18812$De7.3704@bignews7.bellsouth.net.. .
>I bought this 1994, 940 wagon a few years ago and have had several problems
>with it(namely broken timing belts) that have been resolved. Yesterday
>attempting to leave the Publix parking lot I could not get the shift lever
>out of park. Finally by pushing hard on the button I managed to pull it
>out of park. Each time it happens now I have to use the button that seems
>to be placed there for that purpose. It is a hassle to have to do this.
>What can I do to rectify this problem? Thanking you in advance for your
>advice.
> Derek in Florida
>
How are your brake lights? Are they operating properly? There is a switch
on the brake pedal to sense that you are applying the brake before you shift
out of park. It releases the shift lock, but an override is available in
case this system fails. I don't recall if there is a separate switch, or if
the brake light switch serves both functions (it usually does). While other
components can fail (wiring, lock solenoid, etc.) the switch is the usual
failure point. Often it is just a matter of adjustment or a need to tighten
the switch mount.

I hope this helps.

Walt Kienzle