🚨 2023 Dacia Duster: Emergency Neutral
The 2023 Dacia Duster with automatic transmission uses a traditional console-mounted shift lever with a button on the front for gear selection.
🧰 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 applied.
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position if battery has any charge remaining.
- Firmly depress and hold the brake pedal.
- Locate the shift lock override slot on the console near the shifter base.
- Remove the small plastic cap or cover adjacent to the shifter (typically to the right or front of the shifter base).
- Insert a small flat-blade screwdriver or similar tool into the override slot.
- While holding the tool in the override slot and keeping the brake depressed, press the shifter button and move to Neutral.
- If successful, the vehicle can now be moved or towed.
Shift-lock override location
Small covered slot near the shifter base on the center console, typically forward or to the right side of the shifter; exact location may vary by trim level.
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, you may not be able to turn the ignition to ACC. In this case, access the shift lock override directly - the mechanical override should work without power. You may need a flashlight to locate the override slot. If the override slot is inaccessible or doesn't work, the vehicle must be transported on a flatbed with all wheels off the ground.