Shift Interlock System

2005 Ford Taurus SEL, 4D SedanSECTION Shift Interlock System
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Mercury Mariner and 2008 Ford Escape. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The shift interlock system prevents the selector lever from being moved out of the PARK position. The ignition switch must be in the ON position and the brake pedal depressed to move the selector lever out of the PARK position. The brake pedal position is detected by the brake pedal position (BPP) switch.

The manual override button will mechanically bypass the electronic portion of the shift interlock system and allow the selector lever to be moved out of the PARK position. The manual override button is part of the selector lever assembly.

To override the brake shift interlock, remove the tethered cap on the selector bezel with a small screwdriver. With the brake pedal depressed, insert a small screwdriver into the access hole, press down and pull the selector lever out of PARK.

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • β€’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • β€’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
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