My 99 automatic ford escort will not go into gear, yet the shifter is moving?

could be shifter linkage issue or transmission.

You need to have someone or two to push the car to get the pressure off. If you are facing downhill have them push the front end, if uphill push the back. Release parking brake first because that will keep it from moving. After pushing a few inches you should be released and can shift but be carefull you don't run anyone over (go for neutral with foot on brake) Hope this helps.

Does the shifter move - in other words, can you change the shifter position, but the car still stays in Drive? Or can you not move the shifter at all? A bit more information, please.

The shifter cable attaches to the arm on the side of the transaxle.
Look under the hood and locate the cable coming from the firewall.
You can set the parking brake and move the arm if the cable is broke.

My escort is stuck in fourth it's not the clutch or the shifter I have no clue it's moves right where it goes into the tranny but it's stuck in high gear and just is really boggy

most of the time you can call it the shifter boot and the parts person should know what you are talking about. check with the ford dealer it shouldn't be too expensive.

There's no dedicated switch for the shifter light - it should come on automatically with your parking/headlights. If it doesn't, it likely just needs a replacement bulb.

Bill B

sounds like the shift cable is going bad

Worn engine mounts may let the engine and transmission move too much, also the shift linkages may need adjustment.

it sounds like the engine could be siezed due to broken piston or ring.