2001 Pontiac Sunfire Owner's Manual - Page 100

Shifting Out of Park (P) (Automatic Transaxle Only) Your vehicle has an automatic transaxle shift lock control system. You have to fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition is in RUN. See "Automatic Transaxle" 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 also release the shift lever button as you maintain brake application. Then move the shift lever into the gear you wish. (Press the shift lever button before moving the shift lever.) If you ever hold the brake pedal down, and still can't shift out of PARK (P), try this: 1. Turn the key to OFF. 2. Apply and hold the brake until the end of Step 4. 3. Shift to NEUTRAL (N). 4. Start the vehicle and then shift to the drive gear you want. 5. Have the vehicle fixed as soon as you can. Parking Your Vehicle (Manual Transaxle Models Only) Before leaving your vehicle, fully press the clutch pedal in, move the shift lever into REVERSE (R), and firmly apply the parking brake. Once the shift lever has been placed in REVERSE (R) with the clutch pedal pressed in, you can turn the ignition key to OFF, remove the key and release the clutch. See "Manual Transaxle Operation" in the Index. 2-34