2001 Ford Escape Unable to remove the key from ignition swi

JOHNECROMBIE

MEMBER
2001 FORD ESCAPE
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
83,000 MILES

I am unable to remove the key from the ignition after placing the vehicle in PARK. I have to "jiggle" the gear shift handle until the "P" is highlighted by the LCD indicator. The key can then be removed!

What would be the fix for this problem? Thanks, JOHN

4 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,709 POSTS

First, try to lubericate it. Let me know if that helps.

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Thursday, May 13th, 2010 AT 7:40 AM

JOHNECROMBIE

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Lubricate what? The repair technician said that the key tumblers are fine and there is no problem removing the keys but only when I can effectively move the gear shifter to the point that "P" is highlighted. Is there an adjustment mechanism in the steering column? Is it not receiving a signal from the transmission that its in PARK?
Thanks, johnecrombie

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Thursday, May 13th, 2010 AT 10:33 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,709 POSTS

Sorry, I missunderstood. I thought the tumbler was the problem. As far as adjustment, I believe the linkage at the transmission is adjustable.

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Thursday, May 13th, 2010 AT 10:51 PM

JOHNECROMBIE

MEMBER
3 POSTS

A local transmission shop did some troubleshooting and found the "Shift Assembly", (located behind the key/tumbler) was faulty. Item replaced, problem solved! Thanks for everyones assistance. JOHN.

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Tuesday, May 25th, 2010 AT 10:51 PM