ok.. i noticed that when i put my car in park, that the shifter won't "click" in park.. so in other words, it will shift into gear without depressing the brake pedal.. and i also noticed a metal rod disconnected from it. i don't know what it's called...... i drew a diagram in paint... sorry for the cheapo drawing.. my car is in the body and paint shop.

Crazy Glue!

even when it seems like it is stuck on, it still doesn't lock into place when it is in park

So your shift lock isn't working? Looks or seems like it was disconnected, maybe the solenoid that moves the rod is not working and the previous owner disconnected it?
Does it have threads on the end? Maybe the whole assy is bad, check the 4 sale section and see if somebody has a parts car so you can get that assy.
Do make sure the solenoid is working otherwise once you get the assembly connected, you'll be stuck in park.

Great Advice, njmaxselted!

be careful if he stops short you might get stuck, LOL. jk

mine doesn't lock either but I don't care. I got used to getting in the car, starting it, putting into gear, releasing the park brake and then she goes all by her self without me touching a pedal at all.

get a 5 speed!!! or go straight to the 6 speed!!!

Yes, that's the best way to fix a broken shift lock solenoid linkage.

That happenend to my 95 Maxima and the problem was a plastic tube from the air cleaner was wedged between the shift linkage and the frame. The mechanic installed the tube back where it belonged and everything is normal again. $43 repair.