The gear shifter on my 98 Neon won't shift out of park any idea why?

Question

My brother said that it could be that a motor mount broke and the engine is setting on the tranny. It doesn't seem that it was leaking tranny fluid, and I had no problems with it up until now. Just all of a sudden it wouldn't move.

Answer 1

Assuming there's no damage to your car (like it wasn't just in an accident etc.,):

Most newer auto-trans cars have a lockout switch for the shifter in case it locks in P.  That lockout switch can trip for a variety of reasons, and if it does you have to reset it manually to get the shifter out of P.  

The switches are normally somewhere near the shifter itself - normally something like a black button you "push in".  Your owner's manual should also give the location of the switch, assuming you still have the manual.  If not, Autozone or a similar parts store might be able to help you locate the switch over the phone for free.

Answer 2

Hit There!

Your Brother is most likely right, Something to do with the Transmission, It has either broken, or the motor mount has broken, or one other possible out come could be the shift linkegde is either broken or bent, You should definately get your car professionally checked out, put a forsale sign on the puppy and get another car lol My boyfriend and I have  A 98 Neon also and ours is a piece of junk to... Hope this helped and Hope all is well with your car!

Answer 3

most likely the linkage is just in a bind. but because it is a dodge neon just junk it you will thank me later.