Under the shifter trim, there is a small solenoid that disengages the safety lock so the car can shift. It only works when you have the key on and push the brake. Sometimes they get gummy because of soda and other things getting spilled from the cupholder. Spray some wd40 or other penetrating oil into the solenoid shaft and shift several times. It will eventually work loose and work perfectly. Both subaru's I've had were used and had soda goo in the solenoid causing it to stick. I fixed both the same way.
The solenoid is the thing that clicks when you push the brake with the key on. Look at it and you will see it move if you can catch it working long enough.
good luck, man
