2007 Saturn Ion Owner's Manual - Page 118

Shifting Out of Park (P) Your vehicle has an automatic transaxle shift lock release 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 Operation on page 110. The shift lock release is designed to do the following: • Prevent the ignition key from being removed unless the shift lever is in PARK (P), and • Prevent movement of the shift lever out of PARK (P) unless the ignition is in a position other than LOCK. The shift lock release is always functional except in the case of a dead battery or low voltage (less than 9 volt) battery. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever - push the shift lever all the way into PARK (P), 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. Parking Your Vehicle (Manual Transaxle) 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 LOCK, remove the key, and release the clutch. See Manual Transaxle Operation on page 112. 118