Ford Escape: Brake-shift interlock
This vehicle is equipped with a brake-shift interlock feature that prevents the gearshift lever from being moved from P (Park) when the ignition is in the on position unless brake pedal is pressed.
If you cannot move the gearshift lever out of P (Park) with ignition in the on position and the brake pedal pressed, it is possible that a fuse has blown or the vehicle’s brake lamps are not operating properly. Refer to Fuses and relays in the Roadside Emergencies chapter.
Note: For some markets, this feature will be disabled. If the fuse is not blown, perform the following procedure:
1. Apply the parking brake, turn the ignition to off, then remove the key.
2. Using a screwdriver or similar
tool, carefully pry out the small
Brake Transmission Shift Interlock
(BTSI) cover cap located to the
right of the gearshift lever.
3. Insert a screwdriver or similar
tool straight down into the access
hole and press downward while
pulling the gearshift lever out of the
P (Park) position and into the N
(Neutral) position.
4. Remove tool and reinstall the
BTSI cover cap.
5. Start the vehicle and release the
parking brake.
WARNING: Do not drive your vehicle until you verify that the
brakelamps are working.
WARNING: When doing this procedure, you will be taking the
vehicle out of park which means the vehicle can roll freely. To
avoid unwanted vehicle movement, always fully set the parking brake
prior to doing this procedure. Use wheel chocks if appropriate.
WARNING: If the parking brake is fully released, but the brake
warning lamp remains illuminated, the brakes may not be
working properly. See your authorized dealer as soon as possible.
Preparing to drive
WARNING: Utility vehicles have a significantly higher rollover
rate than other types of vehicles.
WARNING: In a rollover crash, an unbelted person is
significantly more likely to die than a perso ...
Automatic transmission operation (if equipped)
Automatic transmission adaptive learning
Your transmission is equipped with an adaptive learning strategy found in
the vehicle computer. This feature is designed to increase durability and
provide ...
See also:
Brake fluid level
If you notice that the brake fluid level in the brake fluid reservoir has fallen
to the MIN mark or less, check the brake system immediately for leaks. Also check
the thickness of the brake lin ...
TPMS Malfunction Light and Message
The TPMS will not function properly if one or more of the TPMS sensors are missing
or inoperable. When the system detects a malfunction, the low tire pressure warning
light flashes for about one m ...
Backing Up
Hold the bottom of the steering wheel with one hand. To move the trailer to the
left, move that hand to the left. To move the trailer to the right, move your hand
to the right. Always back up slow ...