How to Fix 2018 Ford Fusion if It Won’t Shift Out of Park: Step-by-Step Guide

This issue is likely caused by a faulty shift interlock solenoid and requires immediate servicing.

2018 Ford Fusion Won’T Shift Out Of Park

If you have a 2018 Ford Fusion and it won’t shift out of park, it could be a cause for concern. This is because the problem could potentially be related to the transmission or brake system. The primary symptoms of this issue include difficulty shifting out of park or the car not shifting at all even when the shifter is moved. In some instances, pressing and holding down the brake pedal while attempting to shift out of park may help. However, if that doesn’t work, then it is best to seek professional help from a qualified Ford mechanic. They will be able to diagnose the cause of this issue and get your vehicle back on the road again quickly and safely.

2018 Ford Fusion Won’t Shift Out Of Park

When your 2018 Ford Fusion won’t shift out of park, there are a few possible causes and solutions to consider. Diagnosing and resolving the issue can be complicated, so it is important to understand the underlying issues that could be preventing your vehicle from properly shifting.

Diagnosing The Problem

The first step in diagnosing any problem with a vehicle is to use a computer diagnostic tool. This will allow you to pinpoint any issues with the engine, transmission, or other components that may be causing your vehicle not to shift out of park. After running a diagnostic test, it is also important to visually inspect all associated parts to ensure they are functioning properly.

Common Problems

One of the most common problems with vehicles not shifting out of park is related to the Vehicle Security System (VSS). This system ensures that when the ignition key is turned off, the car will remain in park until it is shifted into drive or reverse. If there are any issues with this system, then it could cause your car not to shift out of park. Additionally, if there are any problems with the park/neutral position switch then this could also cause your car not to shift out of park.

Overview Of Vehicle Security System

The Vehicle Security System works by using an electronic switch located under the steering column which prevents the transmission from shifting into gear unless the ignition key has been turned on and off again. It works by sending an electric signal through a switch which controls whether or not the transmission can move into gear. If there are any issues with this system then it could cause your vehicle not to shift out of park.

Troubleshooting Vehicle Security System

In order to troubleshoot any potential issues with the Vehicle Security System, it is important to check all associated wiring and connections for corrosion or damage. Additionally, make sure that all parts are connected correctly and securely before attempting further troubleshooting steps such as replacing faulty parts or testing various switches and relays.

Problems With Transmission Gear Shift Lever

Aside from problems with the VSS, another common cause for vehicles not shifting out of park is related to corroded cable connections or faulty switch assemblies associated with the transmission gear shift lever. These components can become corroded over time due to exposure from moisture and heat in extreme temperatures which can prevent them from properly engaging when attempting to move into gear. Additionally, faulty switch assemblies can also cause similar issues as they may need replacing if they become damaged due to wear and tear over time.

Inspecting the Electrical Components

When diagnosing the issue with a 2018 Ford Fusion won’t shift out of park, it is important to inspect the electrical components. This includes checking wiring connections and testing the control module. If any of these components are faulty or not functioning properly, it could be causing the issue with the vehicle not shifting out of park.

To check wiring connections, use an Allen keys set to open up access panels and then inspect all wires for signs of fraying or corrosion. If any wires look worn or damaged, they should be replaced as soon as possible to avoid further damage to the vehicle’s electrical system.

Testing the control module requires a specialized tool called an open end wrench set. This tool should be used to gently move back and forth along each wire until each connection is tested. If there are any problems with any of these connections, they should be addressed before attempting to fix the issue with the vehicle not shifting out of park.

Finding The Source Of Problem Indicator Light

When diagnosing why a 2018 Ford Fusion won’t shift out of park, it is also important to find the source of any problem indicator lights that may be illuminated on the dashboard. This can usually be done by inspecting gauges and warning lights, as well as testing fuses and relays. Any faults found here should be addressed before attempting to fix the issue with shifting out of park.

When inspecting gauges and warning lights, look for signs of damage or malfunctioning parts that could be causing a false reading or indicating an underlying problem with the vehicle’s electrical system. If necessary, replace any damaged parts or faulty wiring connections in order to ensure accurate readings from all gauges and warning lights on the dashboard.

Fuses and relays can also cause false readings if they are not functioning properly or have become damaged over time due to age or wear-and-tear. To test these components for functionality, use a multimeter set on its lowest setting (to prevent damage) in order to measure current flow through each component being tested. If there are any issues found here, they should be addressed before attempting to fix the issue with shifting out of park.

Resetting The Computer System

If none of these steps have solved why a 2018 Ford Fusion won’t shift out of park, then it may be necessary to reset its computer system in order to get it working again properly. To do this, first perform a power cycle by disconnecting both negative battery cables from their terminals and leaving them disconnected for at least 15 minutes before reconnecting them again; this will reset all settings on your computer system back to their factory defaults and allow you to start troubleshooting from there again if necessary.

Once that has been done, you can reinitialize your computer system by accessing its settings menu through your car’s infotainment system (if available). From here you can manually adjust various settings such as engine performance parameters, fuel injection settings and transmission calibration settings in order to get your car shifting correctly again once more without needing further intervention from a mechanic or dealership service center.

Tools Needed To Fix Ford Fusion Issue

Although diagnosing why a 2018 Ford Fusion won’t shift out of park can seem like an overwhelming task at first glance; however with some basic tools such as an Allen keys set and an open end wrench set it is usually possible for even novice DIYers like yourself make successful repairs yourself without needing help from professional mechanics or technicians at dealerships service centers – saving both time and money in most cases!

FAQ & Answers

Q: What are the possible causes of a 2018 Ford Fusion not shifting out of park?
A: Possible causes for a 2018 Ford Fusion not shifting out of park include the vehicle security system, a park/neutral position switch, corroded cable connections, faulty switch assembly, wiring connections, control module, gages and warning lights, fuses and relays.

Q: How do I diagnose the problem with my 2018 Ford Fusion?
A: To diagnose the problem with your 2018 Ford Fusion you should perform computer diagnostics as well as a visual inspection.

Q: What tools will I need to fix my 2018 Ford Fusion issue?
A: You will need an allen keys set and an open end wrench set to fix your 2018 Ford Fusion issue.

Q: How do I reset the computer system on my 2018 Ford Fusion?
A: To reset the computer system on your 2018 Ford Fusion you should perform a power cycle and reinitialize the computer system.

Q: How does the vehicle security system work on my 2018 Ford Fusion?
A: The vehicle security system on your 2018 Ford Fusion works by sending an encrypted signal from the key fob to a receiver in the vehicle which then allows you to start and drive the car. If there is any interference or disruption in this signal then it will prevent you from starting or driving your car.

Based on the information available, it appears that an issue with the shift interlock solenoid could be the cause of the 2018 Ford Fusion not shifting out of park. It is important to have a qualified technician diagnose and repair any issues with the shift interlock solenoid to ensure proper operation of the transmission and safe operation of the vehicle.