I have a 2004, 5 cyl XC90 with 84k miles on it. Recently the shifter started to not let me shift out of park after starting the vehicle. After a few tries it eventually will shift but I would like to fix this before it gets to the point that it wont shift at all. I thought that maybe it was the brake switch not making contact, but the lights are going on for the brakes. Could this still be the problem?

 

Sounds like a "Shift-Lock Relay" problem. I have an '03 Murano that did the same thing.
The Shift-Lock on that car was controlled by four components. 1- Key interlock, 2- Brake relay switch, 3 - Shifter Lock Relay and 4 - The CPU control unit that handles the Shiftlock operation.

I'm awaiting for my XC90 to arrive so I don't know off hand how IT operates yet.

However, is there a small cover on your shifter console that you can pop off?

Insert a small shaft(small screwdriver, key, etc) into that spot in emergency situation if the shift lock solenoid does not release the lock so that you can drive the car until you get it fixed.

 

1. A transmission shift control including a forward position, a neutral position, a reverse position and a shift control lever with a hand grip having a button or switch located thereon comprising:

the switch or button adapted to be manually actuable and operable for actuating a park brake or park lock when the control is in the neutral position.

2. The shift control of claim 1, wherein the control is automatically operable for releasing the park brake or park lock when moved from the neutral position to either the forward or reverse positions.
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