🚨 1993 Dodge Intrepid: Emergency Neutral
The 1993 Intrepid uses a traditional column-mounted shifter with a mechanical shift-lock interlock tied to the brake-light switch.
🧰 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
- Set the parking brake firmly and chock the wheels
- Turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON position (if battery has any charge)
- Locate the shift-lock override slot on the lower right side of the steering column shroud, near the shifter base
- Remove the small plastic cap covering the override slot (you may need to pry gently with a flat-blade screwdriver)
- Insert a small flat-blade screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, press the shifter button and move the shifter to Neutral
- If the steering wheel is locked and you need to steer, turn the key to ACC while gently rotating the wheel
Shift-lock override location
Lower right side of the steering column shroud near the shifter base, covered by a small plastic cap
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead battery, the steering column lock will engage when the key is removed, preventing steering. You can still shift to Neutral using the override slot without power. The vehicle can be pushed or winched straight onto a flatbed, but cannot be steered. If you must roll it with steering capability, jump-start the 12V battery minimally to unlock the column.