Starter not working

Escape won't start or shift gears. I took the top cover off next to the column shifter and pressed the interlock override switch, and although this allows me to change gears, it still won't start. Someone suggested it may be a loose or rusty wire that runs from the transaxle to the bottom of the battery tray. Battery connection, etc, seems fine; everything works, except occasionally I have to try several times before the key will turn over to the "start" position.

Started having to get car jumped off if it was off overnight, then kept getting worse. Shut off while I was driving down the road, steering column locked up, lights fading in and out. Would not jump off at all. Tried to replace battery, hooked up backwards, did not try to crank like this but went to turn power on and nothing happened so I turned off and realized this, hooked battery up correctly. Replaced main fuse, cause it got blown, then was getting power flow again. Got brand new battery. Turns over but will not crank. I can hear the fuel pump coming on when turned key for power. Replaced crankshaft sensor but still same results. I think it might be PCM?

Engine Mechanical problem
2001 Ford Escape 6 cyl Four Wheel Drive Automatic

my truck wont start it makes this clicking noise when I try an start it. It will not turn over just keeps clicking! Help me PLEASE! Concerned Mom.

If the battery is charged then you may need a new starter motor. Did you try to start it with jumper cables from another vehicle to see if it was a dead battery? If so you will want to have the starter looked at next.