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Subaru Forester 2005: Auto gear stuck in 'Park'

I bought an ex-ambulance service 2005 Subaru Forester in 2007 and about 18 months ago the auto gearshift stuck in the "Park" position and would not move. I was advised that as a temporary measure there was a tiny cover plate next to the gear selector that when removed revealed a button that could be depressed with the car key allowing the gearshift to move. I took car to Subaru and the brake light switch was replaced, which solved both problems, but the same thing has now happened again. Subaru have again replaced the brake light switch without any real explanation or responsibility. So far this has again fixed the problem. With the existence of the manual gear release switch, does this mean Subaru recognizes an existing problem? Is this a common occurrence? Should the brake light switch have failed again within 18 months? Is it possible that the car having been an emergency vehicle has had extra wiring done that affects the gearshift and brake lights every 18 months? Or could it be an electrical problem that somehow appears sporadically?

We asked Subaru to help us answer your questions and they have told us that the "manual release mechanism is to provide for emergency recovery if the vehicle becomes stuck in Park for any reason." We were told that there is no current or historical problem with the car, and that this type of mechanism is not uncommon. It was recommended that you discuss the issue of the recurrence of the problem with your dealer. We were also informed that the original switch should have been covered by Subaru's 24-months parts warranty, which applies when an authorized dealer installs a genuine part. Subaru says that it is possible that the extensive electrical modification and subsequent restoration that is made to emergency vehicles could have contributed to the problem with your vehicle, but that it is equally likely that the switch simply failed. It was suggested that you go back to your dealer and request that the warranty be honoured, and also request that the issue be referred to the Subaru regional office for technical review if it reoccurs.

Disclaimer: You acknowledge and agree that all answers are provided as a general guide only and should not be relied upon as bespoke advice. Carsguide is not liable for the accuracy of any information provided in the answers.

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