Shift Interlock Solenoid: Service and Repair

Removal and Installation

NOTE: Some 2002-2005 Explorer 4 Dr/Mountaineer vehicles may require a greater effort to move the gear selector lever from drive to park. This may be due to a time delay with the brake shift interlock pin retraction.

1. With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist.






2. Remove the 2 fasteners supporting the instrument panel knee bolster from below the steering column and remove the cover.






3. Remove the 3 fasteners supporting the steering column lower shroud and remove the cover.






4. Remove the 3 wiring bundle carrier fasteners from the bottom of the steering column to allow movement while removing the brake shift interlock switch. It may be necessary to release the connectors from the multifunction switch.






5. Remove the brake shift interlock bolts.

6. Pull the brake shift interlock tab on the bottom of the column downward to help free the brake shift interlock from the column housing.






7. Break the 2 side tabs off the brake shift interlock by the white wiring connector.






8. Push the locking tab on the white connector towards the wiring to release the connector from the brake shift interlock. Be careful not to damage the connector or wiring. If the connector does not free easily, a very small flat screwdriver may be used to help lift the locking tab.

9. Connect the wiring to the new brake shift interlock. Make sure all clips are fully engaged to prevent the connector from pulling free.






10. Position the brake shift interlock onto the steering column and reinstall fasteners.

11. Check brake shift interlock function. With the key in the accessory or run position, press the brake pedal. The brake shift interlock pin should retract on brake application and spring up 1 second after releasing the brake pedal. Repeat several times.

12. Reinstall the fasteners to connect the wiring bundle carrier to the steering column. Make sure all connections to the multifunction switch unit are secured correctly.

13. Assemble the steering column in reverse order. Make sure the rubber gap hider around the shift lever is correctly seated on the shroud.

14. Cycle the shift lever from park to drive and drive back to park several times to verify improved shift effort.