my 02 I simply ripped the stock boot on the shifter for easy access, and just cram my finger in there every time this happens and probe around... and vuala!! it shifts into drive!!

best part is, NOBODY ELSE KNOWS THIS!! so its an added security feature!! im not fixing it...EVER!! if i do, some random weirdo will hop in, and make off with my truck!!

cheers!

 

if you spray a lubricant into the steering column (after taking the boot off) it will let the lock slide out more quickly and stop it from becoming a problem, that is what i did when mine started sticking, and i did it BEFORE it got stuck this time

 

Alright then... pulling off the boot and applying graphite-oil to the various contact points worked wonders. Very good advice, thanks!