Hello. I have a 2002 Ford Escape. Ever since some idiot at a trailer rental place connected our brake/turn lights wrong and blew the brake light fuse, I have had problems. The key is stuck in the ignition and the gear selector does not indicate that its in 'Park'. I can get the key out of the ignition if I disconnect the battery.

I have replaced the transmission range sensor and it still has the same problem -- it never displays 'Park' and the key is stuck. Today I read that 'Park' will only be highlighted if BOTH the transmission range sensor indicates park and the park interlock solenoid input is correct.

So now I think the problem is with the park interlock solenoid. This morning I entered 'test mode' on the instrument console. No matter what I do with the shift lever, the 'Park interlock solenoid status' is '-0'.

Where is the park interlock solenoid supposed to be located? I haven't been able to find much information about it.

Brett

 

I found the problem -- the switch behind the shift lever is loose.

I'm not sure how to tighten it without removing the entire steering wheel.

Brett

 

Did you ever get this problem figured out? I am having the exact same problem!