Hi Pam,
Check to see if your reverse lights work. Ignition on in 'R'. If not working replace fuse in glove box area if I remember correctly. If they are working you need to force the computer into limp mode. this prevents the electrics that control soleniods etc in the box from inhibiting reverse. Unplugging a transmission speed sensor will make it go into limp. It should now go backwards with quite a jolt as there is no pressure regulation. If no 'R' box bad, very rare. If OK it would be wise to plug on a diagnostic device to look for codes or live data that is out of spec. Check out 'fedauto.co.uk'for specialists
mags, October 2009