Mr Mad Face:
The shifter assembly is actually considered a control module also. No parts available for it.
Since you "forced" it to shift, we can assume it's getting the signals to operate, but is jamming a bit, otherwise you wouldn't have been able to force it to move. You're supposed to read the owners manual where they tell you how to move the car out of park in an emergency (such as a dead battery or what have you).
I don't know if anyone has been successful in attempting to repair or lube the shifter module or not. I definitely wouldn't recommend just trying to spray lubricant around the gaps. If someone wanted to attempt to lube it I'd recommend at least a partial disassembly of the shifter. You may want to price out a new one first.
Gilly
PS this could have been combined with your post about the door.