Ive read all the awesome threads on this subject. It happened to me yesterday. First it was press the brake twice, it unlocked, then next start had to press brake 5 times until it unlocked. Got home no mas.

Here's my question, once I get it out of park by bypassing the switch can I leave it in neutral instead of putting back in park? Is that a battery drain or any other adverse effects?

 

The key might be stuck in the ignition unless the transmission is in park. I believe there is a solenoid on the steering lock/ignition switch.

 

Yeah, you wont be able to remove the key unless its in Park.

 

something must be broken in my truck then bc i can take my key out in any gear.

 

Is this is right? The 3rd brake light came on when I did this Pressed rear defrost and brake = nothing, still locked I have no brake lights Clues?

 

No that's not right.
A) If that's a paperclip there's paint on it preventing good contact.
B) You jumper the two terminals with the wires still attached.

Put the female connectors back on and jam the paperclip in there so its making contact. Turn the key to Pos II and press the rear defrost switch.

Also, it might not be your brake light switch that's bad. It could be the shiftlock solenoid that has failed.
Check this for the solenoid.
https://landroverforums.com/forum/di...riveway-54591/

 

I stripped off plastic from pclip got good connection w termials on turned on defrost button it turned orange so I know it came on key turned all the way before cranking and actually cranked it up too still same I hear the s'noid click when I press button on handle wonder if this could be fuse? nope all fuses good

 

Well the clip fix is not effecting it which is strange since my brake lights are not working

When I push in the button on the shifter handle I can hear the clicking sound so that tells me the solenoid is working?

 

what is up with the brake lights? bulbs? connections?

 

It was the switch! Got one from NAPA amazingly. That mother is hard to get to if your 250lbs. I couldnt get both arms in there, had to use my head to depress the pedal!

It sure does feel good to fix these things on your own though...I did alittle dance when the shifter moved out of park!

Found out why my cruise doesnt work. The vacum hose is connected to the switch but not at the other end. I'll fix that tomorrow.