Ford Explorer: Automatic Transmission / Manual Park Release (MPR)

WARNING: When doing this procedure, you need to take the transmission out of park (P) which means your vehicle can roll freely. To avoid unwanted vehicle movement, always fully apply the parking brake prior to doing this procedure. Use wheels chocks if appropriate.

WARNING: If the parking brake is fully released, but the brake warning lamp remains illuminated, the brakes may not be working properly. Have your vehicle checked as soon as possible.

WARNING: Do not drive your vehicle until you verify that the stoplamps are working.

Use the manual park release to move your transmission from the park (P) position in the event of an electrical malfunction or emergency.

Activating the Manual Park Release Cable

1. Locate the manual park release cable access cover at the bottom of the storage compartment in the center console.
2. Using a tool, carefully open the access cover.
3. Fully apply the brake pedal and hold; do not release.
4. Push down the manual lever to unlock the detent, then pull the lever until it locks in Park Override mode. If done correctly, a message on the instrument cluster displays Park Override Enabled confirm park brake applied.

Note: This message might not display if the ignition is in the off state.

Returning Your Vehicle to Normal Mode

1. Fully apply the brake pedal and hold; do not release.
2. Pull the override lever back until the detent unlocks and stow the lever to return it to the Park position.
3. Install the access cover.
4. With your foot fully applied on the brake pedal, start your vehicle. Confirm that your vehicle is in the park (P) position and that the instrument cluster indicates park (P).
5. If the instrument cluster is not displaying the park (P) position or there is a message stating Park Not Available, apply the parking brake before exiting your vehicle.
6. Confirm the manual park release cable is in the rest position. If the manual park release cable is in the rest position, your vehicle requires service.
7. Disengage the parking brake for wrecker towing purposes. See Electric Parking Brake.

If Your Vehicle Gets Stuck In Mud or Snow

Note: Do not rock the vehicle if the engine is not at normal operating temperature or damage to the transmission may occur.

Note: Do not rock the vehicle for more than a minute or damage to the transmission and tires may occur, or the engine may overheat.

If your vehicle gets stuck in mud or snow, it may be rocked out by shifting between forward and reverse gears, stopping between shifts in a steady pattern. Press lightly on the accelerator in each gear.