won't switch from park it seems to be locked

2003 FORD TAURUS

115,000 MILES • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC

EFJ818

MEMBER
1 POST

well my car won't read the brakes pedal when i push down on it and the gears won't switch from park it seems to be locked someone told me it might be the brake sensor because the brakes are in good condition also they told me it might be the transmission fluid what do you believe it may be?

Jul 30, 2010 at 4:39 PM

SQM

✓Experienced Mechanic
6,383 POSTS

Hello,

It sounds like the issue is a faulty shift interlock solenoid.
When you press the brake pedal that solenoid releases the shift lock and allows the vehicle to be moved out of park.
That solenoid can fail and that will not let you shift from park.

The shift interlock solenoid is located on the steering column (for column shift vehicles) or under the shifter housing (for floor shift vehicle).

I have attached replacement diagrams for both style below.

Please let me know if you have any questions.
Thank you.

Images (Click to enlarge)