Had the same issue when I bought my '06. Found the little button on the floor next to the console, sort of tucked along the seat rail. I thought it was broken off the switch but realized I could just push it back on to the switch face and it clicked into place. This was AFTER I bought a replacement switch of course! If you go the salvage yard route, you might try gently prying just the button out of the switch. The new switch I bought is still sitting in my parts bin. BTW, that switch button is used across many models.
Or you could go ahead and do the conversion from the pogo stick shifter to the smaller shifter from a Flex. There's a few write ups on this forum on how to go about it. Check Ebay for parts, too.
Hi there - So thanks to 06Bluez who was the first one I believe to do this, followed by PUR PONY: http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=346892&highlight=flex I did that mod too and so far I love it. The knob has that modern look and it just looks better. Also, what...
www.explorerforum.com
I have all the parts needed to do this conversion when I get around to it. If you decide to replace the entire switch, make sure you use one from another 4th gen explorer so the plug matches up. Entire switches from other years or models of Ford had differing plug connections.