1997 Chevrolet Cavalier Owner's Manual - Page 87

Shifting Outof PARK (P) (Automatic Transaxle) Your Chevrolet has a brake-transaxle shift interlock. You have to fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition is in the RUN position. See "Automatic Transaxle" in the Index. If you car )t 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 on floor shift console models 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 but can't still shift out of PARK (P), try this: 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 you get out of your vehicle, put your manual transaxle in REVERSE (R) and firmly apply the parking brake. If you are parking ona hill, or if your vehicle is equipped to tow a trailer, see "Towinga Trailer" in the Index. 1. Turn the key to OFF.