Need help...can't shift out of PARK to DRIVE

[ChrisMustangCar]

I was wondering if anyone could help me with a slight problem I am encountering with my V6 AUTO Stang. It happened once before but for some reason, I was able to still drive the car for about a week till it just happened now. I can start the car fine, but when I step on the brake to shift out of park, the brake lights don't come on. This actually doesn't even let me get out of park, so I can't even drive my car. It seems the car doesn't even recognize that I'm pressing on the brakes. What should I do?

Thanks,
Chris

 

[marvinmycat]

You probably parked on an incline and need to push the car back or forth an inch or so in order to get the shifter out of park. This happens to a lot of people. Except me.

 

[ChrisMustangCar]

thanks...

Thanks, it worked....weird problem cuz I wasn't on an incline. But thanks in adv. if it ever happens again...

Chris

 

[Ernad]

...Or you could get a manual

 

[n0v8or]

Your brake pedal switch (mounted on the brake pedal lever) may be starting to fail. The shift interlock release requires the brake lights to be on before you can move the shift lever out of the Park position. Power from the brake pedal switch operates a solenoid that releases the shift lever.

If this happen again, just turn the key to lock, then to the first position (Off). In this position, the interlock is disabled and you can move the lever to "N", then start the car normally. You'll find this procedure described in the Owner's manual in the "Driving" section.

 

[ChrisMustangCar]

Thanks for all the info...it is actually the brake pedal switch that is starting to fail. How much would a job like that cost to fix?

Chris

 

[n0v8or]

If you are small (less than 5-8 / 150 lbs), or have a small friend to lay under the dashboard, it's not too hard to change. You should be able to see it with a hand mirror and a light . . . just look along the brake pedal lever.
Wire colors are usually red with green stripe, and light green with red stripe.

 

[DanM]

I agree, brake pedal switch all the way.

Something else to bear in mind is that if the switch is intermittently failing, then you may be driving around at some point and your brake lights may cease to function. That can be pretty dangerous if someone behind you is on a cell phone or sipping their coffee, not to mention the fact that I'm sure you can get a ticket for it. I'd fix the switch ASAP.