Steering problem
1998 Ford Ranger 6 cyl Two Wheel Drive Automatic 110000 miles
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5 times in the last year or so the truck would not start, even if the battery had plenty of juice.

I was able to get it started by moving the shift lever up and down (it is on the column) until I heard a click.

The key would then connect with the starter, and the engine would start.

After the last event, the gear indicator is now clearly out of alignment. For example, if the indicator says 2nd gear, I am really in Drive; If I am in Neutral, I am really in Reverse. Drive is actually Neutral. Park is midway between Park and Reverse.

Is this a real problem?

Will this situation get to a point that an otherwise excellent vehicle will not be startable?

Can it be fixed?

What is involved in fixing it (cost vs results)?