🚨 2020 Dodge Grand Caravan: Emergency Neutral
The 2020 Grand Caravan uses a traditional console-mounted PRNDL shifter lever with electronic shift-lock.
✓ 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 vehicle is on a flat surface and parking brake is set (or wheels are chocked).
- Turn the ignition to the ON/RUN position (or as far as the key will turn if battery is dead).
- Firmly press and hold the brake pedal.
- Locate the shift-lock override: a small rectangular or circular cap/slot on the console directly to the left of the shifter base.
- Use a flathead screwdriver or key to pry off the cap (it may be labeled or unmarked).
- Insert a flathead screwdriver, key, or similar tool into the override slot and press down firmly while pulling the shifter out of Park.
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be rolled or towed with all four wheels on the ground (refer to owner's manual for maximum tow distance and speed—typically 15 miles at 25 mph for short moves).
- If the shifter still will not move, verify the ignition is in RUN and repeat the override press; some resistance is normal.
Shift-lock override location
Small cap/slot on the console to the left of the shifter base, near the front of the shifter mechanism.
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead battery, the electronic shifter may not release even with the override. Jump-start the vehicle or connect a battery booster to gain enough 12V power to unlock the shifter. If that is not possible, the vehicle must be winched onto a flatbed with all wheels off the ground, as the transmission cannot be safely placed in neutral without any electrical power.