🚨 2019 Dodge Neon: Emergency Neutral
The 2019 Dodge Neon (Mexico-market Fiat Tipo rebadge) uses a modern console-mounted shifter with electronic shift interlock.
🧰 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 parking brake is firmly set and the vehicle is on level ground or properly supported
- Turn the ignition to the ON position if battery power is available
- Locate the shift lock override slot, typically found near the shifter base on the console
- Look for a small cover or cap adjacent to the shifter button (usually on the left or front side of the shifter base)
- Carefully pry off the cover using a small flathead screwdriver or trim tool
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver into the exposed override slot
- Press down firmly on the override while pressing the shifter button and moving the shifter to Neutral
- Keep the override depressed until the shifter is fully in Neutral position
Shift-lock override location
Near the shifter base on the center console, typically on the left side or front of the shifter mechanism under a small plastic cover
With zero electrical power
With no battery power, the mechanical override slot must be used. Remove the cover and insert a screwdriver into the override slot, then press down firmly while attempting to shift to Neutral. Note that without power, you may need to turn the ignition key to ACC position to release the steering lock if the vehicle needs to roll.