I just got a 2000 MPV (which I love) with a little over 100,000 miles on it. However, there is a little glitch that has me concerned. Sometimes it gets stuck in park and I have to turn it off and then on again and it will go into gear. I don't know if it is a transmission problem because the gears shift ok and it only does it some of the time. I have a theory that it was broken into once upon a time and don't know if that is part of the problem since maybe it is some kind of lock out??? The reason for the break-in theory is that the door locks on the drivers side make a strange noise and the glove box has screw driver marks on the inside-not indisputible evidence, but thats my theory. Does anyone have any suggestions? It was bought from a dealer at a lot who bought it at an auction so I don't have a lot of history-thanks!

 

well, i've heard of similar problems on other vehicles, i can't guarantee this, but it may be, when it is "stuck" in park, re depress the brake pedal, and wiggle the key (ignition key to start it, of course) and wiggle that, and let the brake out, and push it again, try it again.
if it is the key, that's why when you turn it off and back on, it works, because sometimes it's not in the right position, too bad i don't know whether that means it's a problem with the ignition, or whether it's a problem with something in the steering column. good luck.

 

Hello,

I have a '90 MPV (bought new) and have always had intermittent trouble with shifter staying in park. I found the solution by accident. Release the steering wheel lock and move the steering wheel up and down and see if that fixes your problem. Mazda could not find a solution.

Happy motoring

gary