(Please see the video I took in my post below.)
My shifter button in my 00' doesn't release about 90% of the time, it works very rarely at random. I initially read it could possibly be the brake switch so I replaced it today but that wasn't the problem. What else should I check for? I can't be the only one who has had this issue before.

 

Geez, my boss's car just pass for this problem about 2 weeks ago. Brake pedal pressed and the button doesn't worked at all. After a few moments it worked just like new, no problems since then.

The system that release the shifter it's connected to the Ignition Switch and brake pedal:


A/T SHIFT LOCK SYSTEM
- The mechanical key interlock mechanism also operates as a shift lock:
With the key switch turned to ON, the selector lever cannot be shifted from P (parking) to any other position unless the brake pedal is depressed.
- With the key removed, the selector lever cannot be shifted from P to any other position.
The key cannot be removed unless the selector lever is placed in P.
The shift lock and key interlock mechanisms are controlled by the ON-OFF operation of the shift lock solenoid and by the operation of the rotator and slider located inside the key cylinder, respectively.

Check the "shift lock solenoid" near of the Shifter, maybe it's starting to die and need to be replaced.

 

I 2nd flankers post

 

Before you get too crazy with checking and pulling parts, or replacing parts, I suggest you clean off the brake solenoid switch behind the brake pedal. The switch should activate when the brake is depressed releasing the button on the shifter allowing you to shift.

An easy way to tell if this is the problem is using your ears. Start the car, turn off the radio, roll up the windows, turn off AC/heat (blower motor). Now that the cabin is silent press the brake pedal slowly. At some point you should hear a "click" sound around the shifter. If you don't, then it is your brake solenoid switch behind the brake pedal.

Clean it out with some electrical parts cleaner which you can get at any auto parts store. Basically spray down the switch with the cleaner and wipe. Give it about 15 minutes to dry then try the brake pedal and shifting again.

Sorry I don't have a picture of it, but it is right behind the brake pedal arm. It is a black round push-button type switch.

Oh...and you are welcome because I am 99% sure this is your issue.

 

Already replaced the brake switch. The problem is somewhere under the shifter.

 

Here's a quick video I took. The little white plastic piece that should move out of the way to allow the shifter rod to move down to get out of park does not move when I engage the brake.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PSppxFt5FtU

And here are some pics, if anybody could label them (solenoid, etc...) that would be extremely helpful since I know very little about the shifting assembly.

 

LOL I had this happen on my old 95, it ended up just being gunked up from dirt, crumbs, spilled coffee & drinks

 

Guys I figured it out. It was just the relay. Replace that little blue plug before you start replacing brake switches and shift lock solenoids. Easy fix right under my nose the whole time.

 

What little blue plug. I have the same problem as I replaced the brake switch. Where is that blue button?

 

It is in a picture in one of the earlier posts. About 4 or 5 posts earlier than yours.

 

any steps on how to get at the solenoid?