I am getting a service engine soon light whose code is saying transmission ranger sensor is faulty. I have learned that this sensor is also known as the neutral safety switch. My question is how do I replace this switch?

Transmission Range Sensor (TRS) Removal and Installation


Removal:

1. Disconnect negative battery cable.
2. Place gear selector in Neutral (N).
3. Remove air cleaner and air cleaner outlet tube, if necessary.
4. Disconnect TRS electrical connector.
5. Remove manual control lever from transaxle.
6. Remove TRS retaining bolts (2).
7. Remove TRS.

Installation:

1. Ensure gear selector is in Neutral (N).
2. Install TRS and loosely install both retaining bolts.
3. Align TRS slots using TRS Alignment Tool.
4. Tighten TRS retaining bolts 9 to 12 Nm (80 to 106 inch-lbs.) and remove tool.
5. Connect TRS electrical connector.
6. Install transaxle manual control lever--tighten 11 to 16 Nm (98 to 141 inch-lbs.).
7. Install air cleaner outlet tube and air cleaner.
8. Connect negative battery cable.
9. Check for proper operation with parking brake on. The engine should start only in Park (P) or Neutral (N).

Is this a DIY job for a car repair novice? I definitely do not have a TR Sensor alignment tool.

I think it is.

Before you replace the TRS, unplug the connector and see if there's corrosion inside. That happens quite often. If you find any, clean out the connector and the plug with electrical contact cleaner. Then apply a light coating of dielectric grease.

If that doesn't work, you'll have to replace the TRS.

I tried the directions you gave but I don't see the part that I need to replace. I need to replace the neutral safety switch. I was told that it was the same as the TRS but it doesn't appear that it is. Can you tell me how to replace the neutral safety switch?

The TRS encompasses the neutral safety switch function. Here's what it looks like:

http://www.motorcraft.com/products.do?item=9_9

That is definitely the part that I have but when I removed the air intake I didn't see a part like that down there. Can you refer me to a website that shows pictures of what I am looking for? Also, do I have to have the alignment tool in order to install it?

It may be that you don't need to remove the air filter on your vehicle. Just look for the TRS on the transmission, just in front of the firewall. Try doing it without the alignment tool--it will likely be okay.