What is your question?
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What is your question?
I have a 2012 ford explorer limited 2wd that will not start. It indicates all gears EXCEPT park. I have replaced and verified the park switch on the shifter inside the cabin. But it still doesn’t indicate Park. It doesn’t show “shift to park” message and it doesn’t illuminate “P” on the dash. It will not start in neutral even with the brake pressed. I was thinking neutral safety switch?
What makes this problem better or worse?
Nothing makes it worse
How long has your 2012 Ford Explorer had this problem?
A week
1 Reply
Hi, this is Bo, an auto expert on RepairPal's Car Genius team! You're on the right track—if your Explorer isn’t recognizing that it’s in Park (and won’t start in Neutral either), the issue likely lies with the Transmission Range Sensor, also known as the neutral safety switch. That sensor tells the vehicle what gear it’s in, and if it’s not sending the correct signal, the PCM won’t allow the engine to start. Even though you replaced the park switch in the shifter, the range sensor is mounted on the transmission itself, usually on the side. If it’s out of alignment, damaged, or just plain worn out, it can cause exactly what you’re seeing—no “P” on the dash, no start, and no shift-to-park warning. Before replacing it, you might try adjusting it if it’s slotted for alignment. Otherwise, a scan tool that reads transmission data can confirm if the sensor is reporting the correct gear. If you need any further advice or want help finding a trusted RepairPal shop in your area, please feel free to call us at 877-913-1554.