I have an intermittent issue with my AT Tacoma (55K miles). May be moisture related. It is a console shifter The problem is occasionally when I shift into D, the "D" on the dashboard does not illuminate. This also can happen for "3", "2" & "1". (It never happens for N, R, or P.) If left uncorrected, it will trigger 2 idiot lights (CEL and one other). I can temporarily correct the issue by running through D, 3, 2, 1 or even just shifting back and forth between D, 3, and back to D (while my foot is on the brake). If I do this the dash light(s) will eventually illuminate as expected, This issue crops up sometimes after a big rainstorm or a wet cold spell, but rarely in dry weather. My suspicion is that contacts on the shifter itself has dirtied (which might encourage condensation) over time and needs to be cleaned and re-lubed. However, I cannot access the contact part of the shifter. The contacts are underneath the console shift indicator. The shifter works fine 90% of the time. Note: I have battled this problem for several years.
Am I on the right track with cleaning? Do I bring it to a dealership? Thanks!
I think cleaning and dielectric grease would be a great place to start. Id have to look into why this may be happening when it rains or is cold?? Thats an interesting one. When you're in there cleaning see if you can note any seals that would prevent water coming up from below and check their condition.
