🚨 2000 Chrysler 300M: Emergency Neutral
The 2000 Chrysler 300M uses a traditional center console-mounted automatic shifter with electronic shift lock.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — cross-check against your owner’s manual when possible.
⚠️ 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 parking brake is engaged
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position if battery has any charge
- Locate the shift lock override: there is a small rectangular slot with a removable rubber or plastic cap on the left side of the shifter base (driver's side)
- Remove the cap by prying it gently with a small flathead screwdriver or your fingernail
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver, pen, or the vehicle key into the override slot
- Press down or push inward on the override mechanism while simultaneously pressing the brake pedal if possible
- While holding the override, move the shifter from Park to Neutral
- If no electrical power exists, the override will still work mechanically—simply hold it down and shift without pressing the brake
Shift-lock override location
Left side of shifter base near the driver, under a small removable cap approximately 1 inch forward of the shifter button
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the mechanical shift lock override still functions. Remove the cap, insert tool, press the override, and shift to Neutral. The steering column lock will remain engaged, so the wheels will not turn. You may need to rock the vehicle slightly while shifting if the parking pawl is under load.