It won't shift into drive or any other gear

BEARS0559

MEMBER
1999 FORD TAURUS
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
123,145 MILES

Would could be the problem? I put the key in turn the car on and it won't shift into drive or any other gear until after a few tries and after I manipulate the ignition a bit. I would kindly appreciate you answer. Thank You

Saturday, August 7th, 2010 AT 4:03 PM

6 Replies

KHLOW2008

MECHANIC
41,815 POSTS

The interlock system is preventing the gear shift from being shifted out of Park. Check if the brake lights are working correctly. Do you hear a clicking noise near the shifter when the brake pedal is depressed?

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Tuesday, April 13th, 2021 AT 7:47 PM

BEARS0559

MEMBER
7 POSTS

No not really I don't hear the click but maybe I wasn't paying attention. What is that interlock system and where is it located? All I know is that I know how to manilpulate it to go into drive and all the other gears. So I know it's not the transmission. I just need to know if there is a relay that could have went. I am still going to schedule an appt with my mechanic who deals with our cars and is certified. Then I am selling it I had enough with this Ford Taurus although I must say it has been reliable and in order for it to be like that you must keep up with the maintenance and that is exactly what I have done. But now it's one thing after another. I am extremely stressed out about this problem.

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Tuesday, April 13th, 2021 AT 7:47 PM

KHLOW2008

MECHANIC
41,815 POSTS

The shift lock actuator is located at bottom of steering column for you model.

It has a cable that goes to the geat shift. you mentioned wiggling the key works so it is possible the key interlock is out of adjustment due to wear.

If you look at the steering column from underneath, you should see something like the diagram.

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Tuesday, April 13th, 2021 AT 7:47 PM

KHLOW2008

MECHANIC
41,815 POSTS

Thank you for the feedback.

For questions you need to post reply so I can get notification and response accordingly.

Our database does not have the labor time for the job so I am not able to assist on the cost. Furthermore costs differs region to region so it is best to get local quotes to be exact.

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Tuesday, April 13th, 2021 AT 7:47 PM

BEARS0559

MEMBER
7 POSTS

You right on the money and I value your answer. Thank you very much for you time and I would like to let you now that you time was appreciated.

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