Problem with shift interlock solenoid

[Larry Michael]

Two years ago my Ford dealer pulled the engine on my 2010 4WD V-8 ST to replace the exhaust manifolds. When I picked up the truck and stepped on the brake to put it in gear I heard a very loud click from the shift interlock solenoid in the center console. Tapping and releasing the brake pedal repeated the clicking noise on both press and release. I had never heard this loud click before.

I asked my service advisor to check it out and he agreed it was loud and assured me that they did not touch the transmission but would be happy to inspect the vehicle for anything related to the work they did to the engine. I decided to leave and live with it. The clocking noise continued and not knowing anything about the construction of the solenoid I decided that it was a coincidence and perhaps a felt washer meant to dampen the noise had disintegrated.

Fast forward to two weeks ago and my shift interlock solenoid intermittently started clicking on its own while I was driving, especially when I made left turns. I'm not much of a back yard mechanic but if it might be a simple fix I'll take a stab at doing so rather than paying my dealer to diagnose it.

So I'd like to educate myself about how this unit works and perhaps find a schematic for this part of the electrical system. I'm concerned that there may be a pinched wire or bad connection somewhere.

To be clear, I have not had trouble with it releasing the gearshift from park when I press the brake pedal, just that it seems to be working when it doesn't need to.

1) Does the signal from the brake pedal switch go directly to the solenoid or through a computer module?
2) Could the problem be with the brake pedal switch? If so, I presume I should be able to see the brake lights flicker when the the solenoid is clicking.
3) Once I have shifted out of park, what keeps the brake pedal switch from triggering the solenoid?
3) Could a loose connection in the center console be triggering the solenoid operation?

Thanks for your help.

 

[Larry Michael]

No thoughts on this from anyone???

 

[wjwolfe82]

I don't have a good answer for you, but since it's intermittent while even driving I would first check all the connections to it.
I had my ST for a few months before I even noticed the 'click'. I searched the net and this forum to find out it is normal operation.
If I listen for it, it's there. Otherwise I don't notice it. I swear I think it is louder sometimes.

 

[clandress]

There is a switch on the brake pedal bracket that activates the solenoid. You might look there first since it's a wear part.

 

[Todd Z]

There is a circuit board in a white box next to the shifter, Pain to get to. If you spill drinks, Clean the console it will get corroded and fail. OR the pin in the side of the shifter is jamming. Both super common issues with the shifters.