2009 Chevrolet Malibu Owner's Manual - Page 112

Torque Lock Torque lock is when the weight of the vehicle puts too much force on the parking pawl in the transmission. This happens when parking on a hill and shifting the transmission into P (Park) is not done properly and then it is difficult to shift out of P (Park). To prevent torque lock, set the parking brake and then shift into P (Park). To find out how, see "Shifting Into Park" listed previously. If torque lock does occur, your vehicle may need to be pushed uphill by another vehicle to relieve the parking pawl pressure, so you can shift out of P (Park). If you cannot shift out of P (Park), ease pressure on the shift lever and push the shift lever all the way into P (Park) as you maintain brake application. Then press the shift lever button and move the shift lever into the gear you wish. Parking Over Things That Burn { CAUTION: Things that can burn could touch hot exhaust parts under the vehicle and ignite. Do not park over papers, leaves, dry grass, or other things that can burn. Shifting Out of Park The vehicle has an automatic transmission shift lock control system. You have to apply the brake pedal then press the shift lever button before you can shift from P (Park). See Automatic Transmission Operation (Four Speed Transmission) on page 2-26 or Automatic Transmission Operation (Six Speed Transmission) on page 2-28. 2-34