Why is the slap stick on my suv not working - Outlander Mitsubishi Cars & Trucks

I have an '04 Outlander and the manual slap stick stopped working. I also noticed the Drive light was not on when in auto drive. This is a common problem with this model and a relatively easy fix. Tools you will need are a small flat head and medium cross head scredriver, solder gun and electronic grade solder, small heat shrink tubing. Remove the entire center console - start at the rear by removing the 4 philips screws in the center arm rest compartment, remove the cover plate underneath the hand brake and the 2 side panels on either side at the front. Remove the shift knob (2 screws behind the small cover plate on the front of the knob - remove with small flat head screwdriver). Remove all remaining screws and the rear section, then slide the center section over the handbrake followed by the front section.

You will see a small switch on the shift lever with 3 wires (Black, Blue and Red). Most likely one or more have become detached, at this point it is best to unsolder any that are still attached because they will likely break in the near future! Remove any old solder and wire from the 3 contacts with the solder gun on the switch and tin each with fresh solder. Strip about 1/8" on each of the 3 wires and tin each with solder. Slide about 1/2-3/4" of the heat shrink tubing onto each wire. Solder the wires back to the swtich in this order:

Black - top
Blue - center
Red - bottom

Start at the top and work down, and after soldering each slide the heat shrink tubing over the solder joint and shrink by applying the solder gun - this will provide better mechanical support and help prevent future breakage.

Reassemble the center console in the reverse order of removal - make sure you have no screws left over!!

Good luck - hope this helps.