Posted: Fri Nov 14, 2008 1:24 pm Post subject: Gear stick won't move
I have an automatic Ford Escort 1999. The problem is that I cannot move the gear stick from Park anymore - actually the button on top of it won't push in. Quite strange, two days ago I drove the car back with no problems. Anyone has any suggestions? Thanks
GregF422
Joined: Sep 22, 2004 Posts: 3216 Location: Kansas
Posted: Fri Nov 14, 2008 5:42 pm Post subject:
Either the brake switch is bad or, more likely, the solenoid that releases the interlock on the shifter crapped out. Seems like this is happeneing to more and more of the 3rd gens.
For a quick fix, you can use a small screw drive and pop that small cover on the foward passenger side of the shifter base plate. Then push that screwdriver into the hole and you should be able to shift it then. You will have to do that each time.
For a more permanant fix, you'll either have to track down the source (bad connection somewhere or bad solenoid) and replace it. OOOOOR, you can take the center console out and then use a zip-tie to hold that interlock mechansim in the unlocked position. Thats what i did and it's worked just fine for 3 or 4 years now. The down side is that you can shift without your foot on the brake and even withou the keys in the ignition, which might be a bad idea if you have kids around.
thanks a lot, the trick with the screwdriver worked so I can move the car now.
I've done some additional research and, indeed, it seems to be the break switch - the brake lights won't come on either. I'll try to replace the switch and hope it's nothing else. I wouldn't drive around with no brake lights...
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