It's been about 2 year almost. The shifter is difficult shifting from default position to Drive position. It's like there is some (plastic) obstacles on the way, right at the turning point. I have to force it to the drive position, and I hear the pretty loud clicking sound Sometimes it also stuck in drive position (if I don't force it back), but will come back to default position in 10 seconds by itself. It is unlikely some external objects got into there I believe. Have you heard anyone had this problem? Do I need to do something about it? Thanks!
Documented problem here on Prius Chat. Best fix is to replace the shift mechanism. IIRC, Galaxee first documented this, and other's have mentioned it too. Gear shifter sticks and park button fails | PriusChat
Your shifter assembly is defective. Get one from eBay to DIY or go to dealer to let them exchange. Do asap as driving at this situation is dangerous.
Here is a write up Patrick Wong wrote when he changed his. How to Replace 2G Gearshift Lever | PriusChat Hope this helps you and good luck!
Thanks All! That should give me enough information to get this fixed at low cost. Consider the problem solved
I've also read on this forum that a piece of plastic can become warped, causing the problem. Subsequent removal of said piece has corrected the problem at least on one occasion. The mechanically inclined may be able to see the problem, once the shifter is removed. Removing is not particularly difficult as it is essentially a switch assembly - - no cable or mechanical linkage. I believe that the panel upon which it is mounted snaps in.
