Beware what lies beneath your car’s centre console
Without a doubt, every driver loves the convenience of a centre console. That’s why just about every vehicle you can find today has one — and they’re loaded with handy features such as oversized cupholders, expansive storage compartments, multiple outlets for almost any type of personal or electronic device, and even wireless phone charging pads. What few drivers realize is the amount of gear hidden under consoles, and how vulnerable some of it can be.
There’s a lot of wasted space under floor-mounted consoles, so automakers often locate electronics, wiring, HVAC ducts and other components in this region. The problem is when almost any type of liquid gets into this area, it can short-circuit electrical parts or gum up the workings of other moving parts.
The most common headache is related to automatic transmission lever-release systems — the components that prevent a shifter from being moved out of the park position until the brake pedal is depressed. They involve a signal coming from the brake pedal switch (which also operates the brake lamps) and an electric actuator or solenoid on the shifter that releases a lock pin to let it move. These mechanisms are a combination of metal and plastic, and any amount of sticky liquid can easily render them useless.
So, what does an automotive designer put directly on top of this sensitive equipment? Cupholders, of course, so your favourite container of supersized, sugar-laden pop or coffee can easily deposit sticky liquids thanks to poorly fitting lids. The most common entry point is the slot where the shifter lever is located.
The biggest problem in most vehicles is that accessing anything under a console is far from a DIY task. There are often hidden fasteners, along with the need to partially disassemble other parts just to access certain areas. Not only that, blindly spraying lubrication through the shift lever slot can lead to more problems.
The easiest way to avoid troubles is to make sure any liquid containers near the console have secure lids. Also, never spray any cleaner directly onto the surface of a console near the shift lever opening, but rather spray a cloth then wipe the surface.
If your car does experience a major spill, get things properly cleaned and dried out, even if it means a trip to the shop. Some symptoms might not appear immediately, but depending on the liquid, problems can crop up down the road.