Why can't the car go into nuetral when the electric shuts down?
I have had my car towed twice to my home on 'skates' because the negative ground came loose from the battery. I think we permanently fixed the problem, but is there a way put get the car in gear when this happens?
also, bought a new pump for the windshield wipers do I have to replace it from underneath or do I have to take the whole front bumper off.
thanks!

 

There is a solenoid interlock on the shifter mechanism which locks the mechanism in P.The solenoid interlock is released when the ignition switch is on and the brake pedal pressed.
If you have no power it remains locked.On most other cars there is a method to release the solenoid using a screw driver(eg my Subaru,Ford Fusion,Mazda Millenia S)
I looked in my Owners Manual and did not see anything for my S-Type.

The WW pump can be accessed from the wheel well by releasing the fender liner--you will see the bottom of the WW tank and the pump is right there.

 

Here is a picture of the windshield washer pump.On looking at again the easiest way to get is to remove the radiator splash shield,you may get away with undoing the fasteners on the passenger side and letting it droop.
Window washer pump is on the front of the tank and vertical,the H/L washer pump is on the bottom of the tank,at the rear and mounted horizontally

 

All the info needed is in the TSB section but here it is again!!

bob gauff

 

+1 on Bob. Easy to release on the very rare times anyone needs to.

Bear in mind that staying in P is a safety feature.

 

Thank you everyone for your help!!!!