Shift Interlock System
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 Mercury Mariner and 2007 Ford Escape. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The shift interlock system prevents a shift out of PARK unless the brake pedal is depressed. The shift interlock system has a shift lock actuator mounted on the floor shifter assembly. If the ignition switch is in the RUN position, the shift actuator is continually on unless the brake pedal is depressed.