2011 G37 Journey: car seems to have some trouble starting - it's like I'm not pushing hard enough on the brake, but I'll do a pump or two on the brake and or try to pull the shifter from Park to Drive and then Park again and something will trip and then I can get it to start..

What sensor and or where do we think the issue lies? Easy fix? Cost to bring it in we think?

 

Could be the starter interlock switch needs readjusting or replacement.

It's a switch the brake pedal or part of it depresses when you step on the brake. It's what causes the lights to turn on as well as permitting car to start (and disable cruise control). They do go bad from time to time.

To verify, you can pull the harness from the switch and just short it out. Your brake lights should come on and car start without issue. You could also just step on the brake and observe the lights when it's dark out. Brake lights should come on with slight pedal depression.