🚨 2019 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid: Emergency Neutral
The 2019 Pacifica Hybrid uses a center-console electronic monostable (spring-return) rotary shifter that returns to center position after each selection.
✓ 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 parking brake is firmly set and the vehicle is on level ground.
- The hybrid system may still have high-voltage power even with a dead 12V battery; do not attempt to work under or around the vehicle.
- Locate the shift lock override slot: it is a small rectangular opening covered by a removable plastic cap, located on the lower left side of the shifter base (driver's side of the rotary dial assembly).
- Use a flat-blade screwdriver or the key blade to carefully pry off the small plastic cap covering the override slot.
- While pressing the brake pedal (if 12V power is available) OR while inserting a small flat-blade screwdriver or similar tool fully into the override slot, rotate the shifter forward to the Neutral position.
- If there is NO 12V power, you will need to hold the override tool inserted in the slot while attempting to rotate the shifter; the mechanical override releases the shift lock solenoid.
- If the shifter will not move even with the override, verify the vehicle is not in an active charging state and that the hybrid system is fully off (no indicator lights on dash).
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be rolled or winched onto a flatbed tow truck.
Shift-lock override location
Lower left side of the rotary shifter base assembly, covered by a small removable plastic cap.
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the electronic shifter will not function normally. Insert the override tool into the slot on the lower left of the shifter base and hold it there while attempting to rotate the shifter to Neutral. The rotary dial may feel very stiff or unresponsive; firm pressure while holding the override may be needed. If unsuccessful, the vehicle must be winched onto a flatbed with all four wheels off the ground.
⚡ EV / hybrid warning
HYBRID CRITICAL: The Pacifica Hybrid has a high-voltage battery system that may remain active even with a dead 12V battery. NEVER tow this vehicle with any wheels on the ground for more than 1 mile at less than 5 mph. The electric drive motor is directly connected to the drivetrain and will generate dangerous voltage if wheels rotate. FLATBED TOW ONLY for any distance. Do not crawl under the vehicle or disconnect the 12V battery near the high-voltage components without proper training.