Shift Interlock System
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Mercury Mountaineer and 2006 Ford Explorer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The shift interlock system prevents the shifting from PARK unless the brake pedal is depressed. The shift interlock system consists of a shift lock actuator mounted on the selector lever. If the ignition switch is in the RUN position, the shift lock actuator is disabled when the brake pedal is depressed.
If the selector lever will not move out of park with the key in the ON position, it will need to be unlocked manually.