Dorman 511-100 Ford Transmission Range Sensor / Neutral Safety Switch

The transmission range sensor (TRS), also known as the manual lever position sensor or the old neutral safety switch, mounts on the manual shift shaft where it exits the transmission case and tells the PCM which gear the lever is in. It is what lets the engine crank only in Park and Neutral, turns on the reverse lights, and drives the PRNDL display on the dash. When it wears out the truck can refuse to start, start in gear, hang in first, shift harshly or into the wrong gear, or show the wrong gear on the cluster.

This is Dorman 511-100, a direct two-bolt flange-mount replacement that matches the fit and function of the factory sensor. It slides over the shift shaft and bolts to the case, so most people have it swapped in the driveway in well under an hour. A common gotcha on high-mileage Ford trucks: rust builds up under the white plastic collar on the shift shaft and swells it, so wire-wheel the shaft clean before fitting the new sensor or it will bind.

Fits a wide range of 2001-2016 Ford, Lincoln and Mazda automatics: F-150 (2001-2010), Ranger (2004-2011), Explorer and Explorer Sport Trac (2002-2005), Expedition (2001-2006), Mustang (2001-2004), E-150/E-250/E-350/E-450 vans through 2016, Lincoln Mark LT, and Mazda B4000. Confirm your exact year and trim before ordering. After installation, expect to drive at low speed for roughly 15 to 20 minutes so the PCM relearns the new sensor.