Shift Mechanism: Removal

Remove bottom section (2) of the center section of instrument panel. See Fig 2.

Fig 1: Remove Top Section Of Center Instrument Panel

Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

1 - SHIFT LEVER ASSEMBLY FRAME TRIM

2 - STORAGE COMPARTMENT

3 - TOP CENTER PART OF INSTRUMENT PANEL

4 - SCREW

5 - PLUG CONNECTIONS

6 - ASHTRAY

Fig 2: Remove Bottom Section Of Center Instrument Panel

Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

1 - SCREW

2 - BOTTOM CENTER PART OF INSTRUMENT PANEL

Disconnect the park lock cable coupling (1) from the shift lever assembly (SLA). Press locking tab (2) together and push coupling (1) against the spring force into the SLA, twist through 90° (right or left) and pull off. See Fig 3.

Disconnect connector plug (5) from SLA. When disconnecting plug, press together at points shown in illustration (arrows).

Fig 3: Disengage Park Lock Cable From SLA

Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

1 - PARK LOCK CABLE COUPLING

2 - LOCK TAB

3 - BOLT

4 - SHIFT LEVER ASSEMBLY (SLA)

5 - CONNECTOR

Pry ball socket (4) of transmission shift cable off ball knob at the SLA. Use a suitable slotted screwdriver.
Unscrew bolts (1). See Fig 4.
Move selector lever to position "P".
Remove the SLA (2) from the vehicle.

Fig 4: Remove SLA

Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

1 - BOLT

2 - SLA

3 - SHIFT CABLE