Gear shifter moves without key engaged

SOLVED: Toyota highlander shift lever moves freely but - Fixya

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Sept 2, 2019 - First off, set the parking brake, raise vehicle so you can get under it. Remove the shift linkage from the transmission and manually move the shift lever to ...
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From what you've described, it sounds like the shifter cable came off at the transmission or the shifter. I'd suggest checking the shift ...

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. Vehicles have a shifter interlock device that keeps it from being shifted into gear without your foot stepping on the brake pedal . These systems do fail . It's all electrically controlled . Forcing it will just break it , maybe the shifter cable broke . Look at the transmission were the cable hooks up an have another person move the shifter , does it move at the transmission ?
Now the car won't start how ? When you turn the key to the start position does anything happen ? Like engine spins over but doesn't start , or doesn't do anything ?

Duplicate question.

Hi Beth usually when shifter is stuck there is a locking mechanism and keeps shifter from engaging unless brake is depressed to release the lock. If you hear a clicking sound when pedal is depressed then switch is probably ok and its probably the steering wheel lock. First try with your spare key to start the vehicle(old key may be worn ). If that doesn't do it then try with WD 40 a very little in ignition key hole or on the key work it slowly and see what happens. If none of these suggestions work its probably the steering wheel lock and that requires surgery. Keep me post best of luck

Sounds like the shifter cable is broke from what your describing. disconnect it from the transmission underneath the car and have an assistant shift the lever back and forth as you observe cable movement underneath the vehicle.

Broken shifter linkage is where i would start. Its a cable that runs from your shifter to the trans. To put it in gear.

If the gear indicator changed to neutral without you doing anything, I would say the transmission selector switch has failed. The switch tells the computer what position the shifter is in.

If the shifter feels loose, then the linkage may have come disconnected at the transmission. If you look under the vehicle, you should be able to see where is hooks up on the left side of the transmission.

Ok, I guess its going to be a not too obvious solution then. All we have to do is find it...
1.What type of gear shifter is in your truck. Column or tower
2. Is the tail shaft turning when you try to move the vehicle
3. Does the vehicle try to move at all
4. Is there any noise from the gearbox or clutch area
5. Are you certain the clutch kit was the right one
6. Did you try the clutch plate on the gearbox input shaft spline
7. Is the release bearing clear of the pressure plate fingers.
8. Does the release bearing carrier slide freely on the retainer on the front of the bearbox, and did you apply lubricant here.

If the vehicle fails to engage in any gear and feels loose the shifter cable is broke.This cable isn't easy to replace, you may want to have a mechanic replace it if your not familiar with it.