I had not driven the Xa since Monday of last week. We went to start the car and it would not turn over, battery would not hold a charge. So I bought a new battery, hooked it up and the car starts but won't shift out of park. I also notice on the dash that the gas gauge was still on E when I know I have at least a 1/4 tank.

I checked the fuse box underneath the dash on drivers side but I don't see any that looks blown or burnt.

Is there a way to manually release the shifter so I can put it into Neutral at least so we can take it to mechanic?

 

There is a manual shift release button under the little cover that you need to pry off (opposite of the P)

 

^^^^^^^^^ what he said, but i would have somebody press the brake pedal and have another person check to see if your brakes lights are coming on. Sounds like you might have a brake pedal switch thats gone bad.