2000 Ford Contour Owner's Manual - Page 122

Driving Overriding the brake-shift interlock feature If it is necessary to use this procedure to move the gearshift lever, it is possible that a fuse has blown and the vehicle's brakelamps may not be working. Refer to Fuses and relays in the Roadside emergencies chapter. If you cannot move the gearshift lever from P (Park) with the brake pedal depressed: 1. Turn the ignition off and remove the ignition key. 2. Apply the parking brake and the brake pedal. 3. Insert a screwdriver or similar item about 5 cm (2 inches) into the square opening to the right of the gearshift at the base of the console. 4. Rotate the screwdriver point rearward. 5. Push and hold the thumb button and move the gearshift. 6. Remove the screwdriver when the gearshift moves from the P (Park) position. The console-mounted gearshift will lock when you turn the key to the lock position. When the gearshift is in any position except P (Park), the ignition key cannot be turned to lock or removed from the steering column. To remove the key, the gearshift lever must be in P (Park). 122 Once the gearshift is secure in the desired position, release the brake pedal and use the accelerator as necessary.