2000 TC Shifter Stuck

[John2000]

I have a 2000 Town car, and the shifter gets stuck in park (When Running). It happens intermittenly, and now that the weather is colder it happens more often. I talked to a transmission repairman, and he said if you turn the ignition all the way on without starting it, and then back it off until the cluster lights turn off then you can put the car in neutral and start it then. Well I tried it, and it worked. But it still dosen't fix my problem. My questions are this.
1) What is the problem?
2) Is it under a recall from Ford Motor?
3) How much would that typically cost to repair?
Thanks,
John

[Ray Layne]

Check to see if the hot wire from the brake light switch to the fuse panel is connected. The brake light switch is right above the brake pedal. Also test the fuses and check to see if all your lights work. You cannot shift it (unless you use the procedure used) from park if any light is inoperative.

[airexcursion]

replace the brake light switch it is right on the brake pedal and is spring loaded. and is not under recal as far as i know its usually about a 50 switch and takes about 10 min to replace after removing the plastic panel closest to the brake pedal. Drive Fast!

[John2000]

Ray and Air,
You were right, It was a brake light switch. I did figure on how to get it out of park with the bad switch. Turn on the ignition switch, shift it into nuetral then start the car then you can move it into gear.
Thanks,
John

[All2kool]

What a great post; problem posted, two responders, issue solved. Just how a forum should work, how refreshing.