Steering Column Repair: 1999 Towncar, brake light switch, solenoid

Question
My car has 148,000 miles and runs well, but today is the first time that I can't move the gear shift out of Park even though I have tried several times with the engine running and my foot on the brake.  Can you tell me what is wrong and needs to be fixed?  Thank you for your help

Answer
Hi Richard:
The shift interlock system will not let you shift unless you press the brake pedal.  If any part of that system fails, it will be stuck in park.  See if the brake lights come on when you press the pedal-- if not, it's a bad brake light switch (it controls the lights and also releases the shift interlock).  Other than that, could be wiring, the interlock solenoid that locks and unlocks the shifter, or it could be a broken part in the shifter.  I hope this helps you

Doug