I am in need of some help! My '2000 Ford Explorer XLT will only shift into drive if you start the thing up in neutral!!! Why is this and what needs to be done to fix this?? This is every time you put it in park you have to turn it of and back on in neutral!

 

Hi Sara and welcome to FTE! I don't own a Ford Explorer, but I would think the neutral safety switch is the first thing to check. Also, what does the shifter feel like when you take it out of Park and shift it into a gear? Is it loose? Can you get any other gear besides Drive? What about Reverse?

 

I think John is on the right track... not sure with your year but it might also be call the VSS. thats what it was on my 99 ranger.

 

Unless it is started in neutral it won't shift into any gear! When started in neutral though the arrow that moves when the shifter is moved is in between gears not right on so you gotta count more or less to know what gear you are in.

 

It may be the shifting linkage is loose or worn. I haven't looked on a Ranger or Explorer, but the linkage in the steering column may be the problem. It could also be underneath. Be sure to have the wheels blocked should you climb under your vehicle. A 2nd person would be a big help in finding the problem perhaps. One working the leaver while another in underneath looking. Like I said, be sure the vehicle won't roll when doing this!

 

Sara, The VSS or neutral safety switch/ Range sensor runs about $40. on rockauto.com Autozone online manual says the sensor is mounted on the tranny, this is different from the ranger it was mounted on rear axle above the pumpkin. ask around in the ranger/explorer forum and a few members there can walk you through diagnosing and how to replace it.