2000 Chevrolet Prizm Owner's Manual - Page 95

When you are ready to drive, move the shift lever out of PARK (P) before you release the parking brake. If torque lock does occur, you may need to have another vehicle push yours a little uphill to take some of the pressure from the parking pawl in the transaxle, so you can pull the shift lever out of PARK (P). If you ever hold the brake pedal down but still can't shift out of PARK (P), try this: 1. Carefully pry the shift lock override cover from the floor-shift console using a flat-bladed screwdriver. 2. Insert the end of a flat-bladed tool into the rectangular slot and press down firmly. 3. While maintaining brake application, move the shift lever into the drive gear you want. 4. Have the vehicle fixed as soon as possible. Shifting Out of PARK (P) (Automatic Transaxle Only) Your vehicle has an automatic transaxle lock control system. You have to fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition is in ON. See "Automatic Transaxle Operation" in the Index. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever -- push the shift lever all the way into PARK (P) and release the shift lever button as you maintain brake application. Then press the shift lever button and move the shift lever into the gear you wish. Parking Your Vehicle (Manual Transaxle) Before you get out of your vehicle, put your manual transaxle in REVERSE (R) (if your vehicle is parked on a level surface or facing downhill), or put your manual transaxle in FIRST (1) (if your vehicle is parked facing uphill) and firmly apply the parking brake. If you are towing a trailer, see "Towing a Trailer" in the Index. 2-23