2007 Chevrolet Malibu Owner's Manual - Page 136

Torque Lock If you are parking on a hill and you do not shift your transaxle into PARK (P) properly, the weight of the vehicle may put too much force on the parking pawl in the transaxle. You may find it difficult to pull the shift lever out of PARK (P). This is called "torque lock." To prevent torque lock, set the parking brake and then shift into PARK (P) properly before you leave the driver's seat. To find out how, see Shifting Into Park (P) on page 135. 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 your vehicle a little uphill to take some of the pressure from the parking pawl in the transaxle, then you will be able to pull the shift lever out of PARK (P). Shifting Out of Park (P) Your vehicle has an automatic transaxle shift lock control system. You have to apply your regular brake first and then press the shift lever button before you can shift from PARK (P). See Automatic Transaxle Operation (Base Models) on page 127 or Automatic Transaxle Operation (SS Models) on page 130. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever and push the shift lever all the way into PARK (P) as you maintain brake application. Then press the shift lever button and move the shift lever into the gear you wish. 136