Transmission completely locked up and vehicle will not Move?

PINKMEGAMONSTER

MEMBER
2009 FORD ESCAPE
AUTOMATIC
252,301 MILES

My vehicle suddenly wouldn't move, my transmission completely locked up. I had to override this by sticking a pen into the reset switch, then the shifter moved and the car is drivable, however mostly all electrical seems to be out. My headlights, taillights, front and back blinkers lights are out, brake lights, radio, dome lights, and power windows, so all major systems. The horn works, and the dash lights work but that is about all. I also have a light illuminated in red saying I P. Believe this means parking brake however the parking break is disengaged. Took it for a drive to assess all this and an awful, strong, sulfur egg smell filled the car from the A/C, which was working good along with the wipers working. We are on vacation and at a shady hotel, could someone have unplugged something? Possibly from underneath the vehicle? What does my car need? A new battery or something more?
Thanks

3 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,885 POSTS

Hi,

IP can stand for a few things. For example, instrument panel, ignition primary, and so on. If you smell a sulfur smell, don't drive it until we figure this out. The catalytic converter may be getting damaged.

Are the only things working the starter motor (to start it) and the horn? Is this a hybrid vehicle? Have you checked fuses under the hood and under the dash?

If the brake lights aren't working, that is why you can't shift out of the park. The park lock actuator is powered by the brake light switch. Let's start there. Since it is running bad, there is likely more to it, but I need to know if there is a loss of power to the SJB.

The brake light fuse is in the smart junction box (SJB) to the right of the center console. See pic 1 below. Check fuse 2 in that box (see pic 2). It is for the brake lights. In addition to checking the fuse, confirm it is getting power. Here is a link to help:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-a-car-fuse

Let me know.

Joe

See pics below.

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