Just wrapped up the install of an Interceptor scan gauge in my '07 Mini but when I fired the car back up I started getting all sorts of lights and alarms. Most notably, the shift lock engaged and I need to manually unlock the lever to get it out of park. I did have a number of electrical / electronic things disconnected for the install, including tapping into the power outlet to power the Interceptor gauge, and the battery went dead during the time it took to do the work. Might a trip to the dealer to reset the malfunction lights be all it takes to fix this, or is there something else I should be looking for? Seems to drive just fine after unlocking the lever and the Interceptor works as it should.

 

Well I was able to clear the engine light (no codes?) but I still have a yellow transmission lock light, a yellow "Mini on a lift" (electronics) light, and a yellow "foot on a brake pedal" light (which I have no idea what it means). I checked for any pinched or loose wires in the console and nothing seems to be interfering with the shifter itself. Since the car runs and shifts fine after manually unlocking the shift selector I'm thinking it may be an electronic gremlin related to the battery going dead? Any input?

 

Check the switch behind the brake pedal and look at the associated wiring. Try and reseat the electrical connector on it. The lockout is tied into that switch to prevent people from shifting out of park unless they have their foot on the brake.

 

Cleared several codes related to low voltage, but also found a loose connector under the center console that was the source of the problem. Probably the one connected to the brake switch.