🚨 2020 Dodge Durango: Emergency Neutral
The 2020 Durango uses a traditional electronic console-mounted shifter lever with a shift lock override accessible near the shifter base.
🧰 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 set the parking brake firmly
- Turn the ignition to the ACC or ON position if battery power is available (not required if using override)
- Locate the small rectangular shift lock override cap on the right side of the shifter base, near the console trim
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or similar tool to carefully pry off the override cap
- Insert the screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal (if power available) and move the shifter to Neutral
- If no power is available, continue holding the override down and apply moderate force to move the shifter directly to Neutral without pressing the brake
- Replace the override cap after shifting
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular cap on the right side of the shifter base, adjacent to the console trim
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead battery, the electronic shifter may be difficult to move even with the override pressed. You may need to apply steady, moderate force while holding the override mechanism down. If the shifter remains locked, the vehicle will need to be placed in Neutral via the transmission itself (beneath the vehicle - professional assistance recommended) or loaded onto a flatbed with dollies under the rear wheels.