Gearshift Cable Adjustment

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Ford Escape. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Separate the shift boot from the floor console finish panel. Rotate the gearshift knob counterclockwise and remove the knob and boot as an assembly.
Carefully pry the floor console finish panel from the floor console.
Disengage the secondary shift cable lock by sliding it away from the shifter ball stud.

Fig 1: Disengaging Secondary Shift Cable Lock

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: If the primary shift cable lock is difficult to slide out, disconnect the shift cable from the ball stud, push the primary lock from the rear, and reattach the shift cable to the ball stud.

Disengage the primary shift cable lock by sliding it out away from the shift cable.

Fig 2: Disengaging Primary Shift Cable Lock

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

With the shifter and the transmission in NEUTRAL, engage the primary shift cable lock.

Fig 3: Engaging Primary Shift Cable Lock

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Engage the secondary shift cable lock by sliding it over the primary shift cable lock.

Fig 4: Engaging Secondary Shift Cable Lock

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Install the floor console finish panel.
Install the gearshift knob and the gearshift lever boot.