where is it located?
how can i check if it still works
-Oliver

 

The solenoid is located directly to the left of the shifter. If you take your console off you can see it sitting to the left. There is some way to test it by applying a 12v current to one of the wires but I'm not sure which one. If you get one of those cheapo Haynes manuals at Autozone or Discount Auto it tells you how to do it because I was going to test mine once. I just had to have mine replaced yesterday.

 

If it lets you put the shifter in reverse (when you are stopped obviously), then it works. If it doesn't (although you can still force it over), then something is wrong. ALSO, sometimes the plunger gets stuck, and will let you go into reverse while driving. This is a mechanical prob. not an electrical one.

Dave

 

I keep missing 5th and I sometimes hit reverse and it grinds like a ****. There is absolutely no effort to lockout the reverse gear, is this mechanical ?

 

Unless for some odd reason, the pcm is continously grounding the solenoid to keep it engaged, then yes.

Off hand, I would have to say it's not possible to take the unit apart w/out pulling the trans., BUT I could be wrong. However the unit is very basic and easy to disassemble.

Dave

 

I just got mine replaced for $115 for the part from a dealer, so you could probably find one for cheaper if yours is broken. Mine was going into reverse if you weren't careful and now it's 100% better.

 

Driver's side of tranny - pic