Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Symptom Chart
Diagnostics in this article assume a certain skill level and knowledge of Ford-specific diagnostic practices. REFER to: Diagnostic Methods .
In most circumstances the PCM sets a DTC to help guide with diagnostics. Refer to DTC Chart(s) before using the Symptom Chart.
| Symptom | Possible Sources | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Brake shift interlock system does not release/lock correctly | Circuitry open, shorted to ground or shorted to power | GO to Pinpoint Test A |
| Brake Shift Interlock Actuator (BSIA) solenoid | INSTALL a new selector lever assembly. REFER to: Selector Lever Assembly . | |
| SelectShift™ is inoperative | Selector lever not fully engaging in S position Selector lever damaged |
GO to Pinpoint Test B |
| Selector lever linkage is out of correct gear relationship | Selector lever linkage out of adjustment | ADJUST the selector lever linkage. REFER to: Selector Lever Cable Adjustment . |
| Loose selector lever cable bracket | CHECK the selector lever cable bracket. TIGHTEN as necessary. | |
| Loose or out of alignment selector lever bezel | CHECK the selector lever bezel alignment. ALIGN or INSTALL a new selector lever bezel if necessary. REFER to: Selector Lever Assembly . | |
| Selector lever binding | Selector lever bezel damaged | CHECK the selector lever bezel for damage. If necessary, INSTALL a new selector lever bezel. REFER to: Selector Lever Assembly . |
| Selector lever damaged | CHECK the selector lever for damage. If necessary, INSTALL a new selector lever assembly. REFER to: Selector Lever Assembly . | |
| Selector lever cable damaged | CHECK the selector lever cable for damage. If necessary, INSTALL a new selector lever cable. REFER to: Selector Lever Cable . | |
| Internal transmission components damaged | CHECK the manual control lever and internal transmission components for damage. REFER to: Transmission . | |
| Brake shift interlock override does not release the selector lever | Brake shift interlock override damaged | INSPECT the selector lever for damage. If necessary, INSTALL a new selector lever. REFER to: Selector Lever Assembly . |
| Vibration - a high frequency (20-80 Hz) that is felt through the seat or selector lever. Changes with engine speed | Selector lever cable incorrectly routed, grounded out or loose | CHECK the selector lever cable. REFER to: Selector Lever Cable . REPAIR as necessary. |
| The ignition key cannot be returned to the OFF position or the ignition key can be turned to the OFF position when the selector lever is not in P | Wiring, terminals or connectors Ignition lock cylinder Key removal inhibit solenoid (part of the ignition switch) Park detect switch (part of the selector lever) Selector lever cable Mechanical damage to the selector lever, selector lever cable or selector lever knob |
INSPECT the key removal inhibit solenoid system for damage. REFER to: Steering Wheel and Column Electrical Components . |
| The IPC PRNDS indicator does not illuminate P | Wiring, terminals or connectors PCM concern IPC Park detect switch (part of the selector lever assembly) |
INSPECT the key removal inhibit solenoid system for damage. REFER to: Instrumentation, Message Center and Warning Chimes . |
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
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