2003 Ford Escape that will not start... stick in park.

Asked by Jennilyn Aug 10, 2014 at 12:34 PM about the 2003 Ford Escape XLT AWD

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

My Ford Escape (2003 model) is stuck in park and the car itself will not start. It doesn't
even attempt to turnover.  All components otherwise are working, including the lights,
radio, and mirror. I have checked the transmission fluid and the fuses.

Any ideas?

1 Answer
10

AzreilNightsky answered 10 years ago

I had this problem on a different vehicle...(not sure it applies in this case but) ...the cause ...my engine had seized. Having a troubled piston removed, the cylinder wall honed, and a new piston/rings installed fixed the problem. I had the vehicle for many years after. Hopefully, in your case, it is not as troublesome. Try looking into a faulty starter or starter solenoid...check battery cables for damage or loose connection....also..if applicable, check the battery fluid level. Check the gear selector cable, a malfunctioned cable or misaligned cable could make it impossible to change gears. I have heard of transmissions going bad and stuck in the park position. ..so that is also something to check. (hopefully, it is not the case).

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