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A few common causes are:

  1. You didn't step on the brake pedal, which has a sensor switch which locks the shift lever in the PARK position (or that sensor has malfunctioned).
  2. Your steering wheel is turned. When your vehicle is in PARK, there is a mechanism which locks the steering wheel in place. Sometimes, if your steering wheel is turned, it applies pressure on that locking mechanism and actually prevents itself from unlocking and releasing the shift lever as well. Try turning the steering wheel one way or the other to get it to release.
  3. Your vehicle is parked on a slope which may be putting pressure on the shifting mechanisms making for difficult movement (all you can do is try to force the lever, carefully, you don't want to damage something). To prevent this problem, get in the habit of engaging your parking brake every time you park, especially on hills. This also helps to maintain proper rear brake adjustment.
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Q: Why is the shift handle on a 2002 dodge Dakota stuck on park is automatic?
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