1997 Ford Aerostar Owner's Manual - Page 156

Whenever you start your vehicle, release the key as soon as the engine starts. Excessive cranking could damage the starter. After starting, allow the engine to idle for a few seconds before driving away. NOTE: Your vehicle is equipped with a brake-shift interlock feature. This feature prevents you from shifting from P (Park) unless you have the brake pedal depressed. (The ignition must be in the ON position.) If you cannot shift from P (Park) with the brake pedal depressed: 1. 2. 3. 4. Apply the parking brake. Remove the key. Insert the key and rotate it one position clockwise (ignition in the OFF position). Apply the brake pedal and shift to N (Neutral). (If the vehicle is shifted back to P [Park], you must repeat the previous steps.) Start the vehicle. 5. If you need to shift out of P (Park) by using the alternate procedure described above, it is possible that a fuse has blown and that your brakelamps may also not be functional. Please refer to the chapter titled Roadside Emergencies in this Owner Guide for instructions on checking and replacing fuses. RWARNING DO NOT DRIVE YOUR VEHICLE UNTIL YOU VERIFY THAT THE BRAKELAMPS ARE WORKING. 155