'98 MK VIII won't shift out of park.

[korrigan]

Just what it sounds like, which seems to be a common problem! Poor car.

Replaced the brake light switch and the fuses look fine (will have to look again), and I was able to get it out of park by turning the key in the ignition ever so slightly until I could shift to neutral, but of course the moment I put it back in park it locks up and I have to start over.

 

[My Great 8]

Disconnect the ballast for the neon tail light in the trunk. Replace the brake light fuse. All fixed.