If your pressing your brake when shifting it could be the neutral and park sensor. Or the linkage. If its the linkage you might have problems with your transmission slipping and shifting by its self or into certain positions easyly than others.
if its an automatic change fluid filter in transmission!!
Yes, and that will cause shifting issues.
The first thing to check is that your transmission fluid level is correct. If it is too low the trans cannot pressurize. DO NOT Overfill.
The 1999 Chevrolet Malibu automatic transmission shift cable has adjustment nuts on each end of the cable. Turning the adjustment nuts will lengthen or shorten the shifting cable.
if no leaks or problems, they recommend every 60< thousand miles.
In the transmission.
In the Transmission
There should be two dipsticks under the hood on a Malibu. One will be plainly marked "OIL" or "ENGINE OIL." The other one is your transmission fluid. This is assuming your Malibu has automatic transmission. If your Malibu has a manual transmission (stick shift), then there is no dipstick for transmission fluid -- manual trannies get lubrication from the engine oil.
The 2004 Chevrolet Malibu transmission can be filled with any SAE certified transmission fluid. The manufacturer recommends that you never overfill the transmission.
A transmission shop will do it for about $200. Just had it done to my 1980 Malibu.
The 2001 Chevrolet Malibu has a 4-speed automatic.