C5 X7 Auto Stuck in 'Park'

[Tony H]

2009 C5 X7 2.0hdi auto Tourer Exclusive

The selector gets stuck on P when I start. I can always get it to release within 30 seconds either waggling it or sometimes just holding my foot on the brake until it decides to click open.

I have had a new battery in the meantime and the problem is the same so that is ruled out.

What is it that might need replacing and I assume I will have to unclip the surrounding trim to get at it. Not sure how or where it comes apart?

[GiveMeABreak]

Are you getting a warning lamp or message on any of the displays when this happens?

Any issues with cruise control, electronic parking brake?

Check the Brake Pedal Control switch - if this has moved or starting to fail it can prevent the 'foot on brake pedal' signal getting through to the gearbox ECU and this can prevent the engagement out of Park.

[bobins]

I think this is a common enough problem, just can't remember what the fix is I'm sure someone will be along shortly who's had this issue

[GiveMeABreak]

If you don't have any warning lights, then have a look at my post here with the unlock procedure:

viewtopic.php?&t=55599&p=576767#p576767

[bobins]

Have a read from 'OSX's' post onwards for probably cause and fix:
viewtopic.php?p=431235#p431235

Edit: And Marc's post above !

[adrianruk]

I have recently had exactly this problem in my 2010 C5 auto. It is very frustrating. Marc's link above covers the subject.
The fault is generally caused by a faulty relay which is located in the passenger footwell. I spent ages locating & extracting the relay but I could now do the job inside 15 minutes! It's cheap too. Just the cost of a relay.
If you need any help just ask.
Good luck
Adrian