How to Move a Dead Explorer

[FordFool2]

Our 2013 Limited had a "not fully seated" connector to the fuel pump. That caused it to die and not restart about a 2' backed out of a parking spot at the local grocery store. Tow truck/flatbed comes along to whisk away to the dealer. Since the vehicle will not start, the shifter will not move from Park. So, what do you do??

The owners manual has this somewhat covered but it is not the simplest thing. You have to pull the mat out of the cubby hole that has the USB, RCA and power point connections. Next, locate an small access door, maybe 2" x 2" toward the left rear. You will need a small flat edge like a screw driver or knife to pry it loose. Next you reach your finger in there and wiggle it around until you find a small little button like thingy. This is the release.

The release took a few minutes to get just right and we were not blocking traffic. I bet it takes longer if cars are honking or traffic is backed way up.

 

[1995E]

Is this for the push button start only? In my XLT, move the key to the on but not start and it will allow me to move the shifter.

 

[FordFool2]

Is this for the push button start only? In my XLT, move the key to the on but not start and it will allow me to move the shifter.

Yes, this is for pushbutton start only.

 

[peterk9]

Our 2013 Limited had a "not fully seated" connector to the fuel pump. That caused it to die and not restart about a 2' backed out of a parking spot at the local grocery store. Tow truck/flatbed comes along to whisk away to the dealer. Since the vehicle will not start, the shifter will not move from Park. So, what do you do??

The owners manual has this somewhat covered but it is not the simplest thing. You have to pull the mat out of the cubby hole that has the USB, RCA and power point connections. Next, locate an small access door, maybe 2" x 2" toward the left rear. You will need a small flat edge like a screw driver or knife to pry it loose. Next you reach your finger in there and wiggle it around until you find a small little button like thingy. This is the release.

The release took a few minutes to get just right and we were not blocking traffic. I bet it takes longer if cars are honking or traffic is backed way up.

There is a much easier way to move the shifter without running the engine. Press the start button to turn on accessory mode, the press it again without pressing the brake. This will allow you to move then shifter as required. If on an incline, engage the emergency brake first, then after pushing the push to start twice, put your foot on the regular brake and the shifter will no longer be locked. You can then disengage the emergency brake.
The shifter will not unlock if you have the emergency brake on and push the button twice. Putting your foot on the brake will allow you to move it.
Just try it at home and you'll see what you can and can't do.
Much easier than going through the procedure you followed.

Peter

 

[FordFool2]

I used the "push to start twice" method that Peter described and it worked fine. I wish I had that the other day. However, the manual override is the only thing that will work if the battery is drained.