🚨 2001 Chrysler Concorde: Emergency Neutral
The 2001 Concorde uses a column-mounted automatic shifter with a mechanical shift interlock linked to the brake pedal switch.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — details like the exact override location may vary by trim; verify visually before prying anything.
⚠️ 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 level ground and the parking brake is firmly set
- Turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON position (not START) to unlock the steering column
- Locate the shift lock override - look for a small cover or slot on the steering column shroud near the shifter lever base
- Remove the small plastic cover if present by prying gently with a flat tool
- Insert a small flat-blade screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down or push in firmly
- While holding the override engaged, press the brake pedal (if possible) and move the shifter to Neutral
- If the brake system has no pressure, continue holding the override while moving the shifter
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be rolled or towed
Shift-lock override location
Small slot or access point on the steering column shroud near the shifter base, typically covered by a removable plastic cap; exact location varies but is usually on the left side of the column
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead battery, you cannot unlock the steering column. You may need to jump-start the vehicle just enough to turn the key to ACC position to unlock the column and access the shift interlock override. If this is not possible, the vehicle must be placed on dollies or a flatbed with the front wheels off the ground and the steering locked straight.