🚨 2011 Chrysler 200: Emergency Neutral
The 2011 Chrysler 200 has a traditional PRNDL console shifter with a mechanical cable linkage and electronic shift lock.
✓ Expert-verified by Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — master technicians, 20+ years each.
⚠️ Chock the wheels first — neutral means the car can roll. Set the parking brake while you work, never stand downhill of the vehicle, and try a 12-volt jump before any override: power fixes most stuck-in-park problems instantly.
The procedure
- Ensure the vehicle is on a level surface and apply the parking brake if functional.
- Insert the key and turn the ignition to the ON or ACC position if the battery has any charge.
- Firmly press and hold the brake pedal.
- Press the shifter release button on the front of the shifter handle and move the shifter to Neutral.
- If the shifter will not release from Park due to shift interlock failure or dead battery, locate the shift lock override slot.
- The override slot is typically accessed by removing a small cover or trim piece on the upper right side of the shifter surround near the base of the shifter.
- Use a flathead screwdriver or the ignition key to carefully pry off the override access cover.
- Insert a key, small screwdriver, or similar tool into the shift lock override slot and press down firmly.
- While holding the override down, press the shifter button and move the shifter to Neutral.
- The vehicle can now be pushed or loaded onto a tow vehicle.
Shift-lock override location
Check for a small removable cover on the upper right side of the shifter surround near the shifter base; the override slot is beneath this cover.
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead battery, the electronic shift lock will not release. You must use the manual shift lock override: remove the access cover near the shifter base, insert a tool into the override slot, press down, and move the shifter to Neutral while holding the override. The ignition will not turn without battery power, but the mechanical override will still function.