🚨 2006 Dodge Charger: Emergency Neutral
The 2006 Charger (LX platform first year) uses a console-mounted PRNDL shifter lever 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 flat surface and parking brake is engaged
- Insert the key into the ignition and turn to the ACC or ON position (if battery has any charge)
- Locate the shift lock override - it is accessed through a small rectangular opening covered by a removable plastic cap on the left side of the shifter assembly
- Use a small flat-blade screwdriver to carefully pry off the plastic cover cap
- Insert the screwdriver or a key into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down and pressing the brake pedal (if power available), move the shifter from Park to Neutral
- Remove the tool and replace the cap
Shift-lock override location
Left side of the shifter console assembly, near the base of the shifter lever, covered by a small removable plastic cap
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery: Turn key to ACC position (mechanical unlock). The shift lock override mechanism is mechanical and will function without electrical power - remove the cap, insert tool, press down, and shift to neutral. Brake pedal pressure is not required when there is no power.