🚨 2025 Dodge Neon: Emergency Neutral
The 2025 Dodge Neon (Mexico-market rebadged Fiat Tipo) uses a conventional PRNDL console-mounted shifter with electronic shift lock.
🧰 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 to ACC or ON position if battery has any charge remaining
- Press and hold the brake pedal
- Locate the shift lock override slot near the shifter base (typically a small covered opening adjacent to or behind the shift lever)
- Remove the cover cap by prying gently with a flathead screwdriver or trim tool
- Insert a screwdriver, key, or similar tool into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, press the shifter button and move to Neutral
- If the battery is completely dead, you may need to manually release the shift lock - see no-power notes below
Shift-lock override location
Small covered slot typically located on the console near the base of the shifter, usually on the right side or just behind the shift boot - exact location may vary by trim level
With zero electrical power
With zero electrical power, the shift lock override should still function mechanically. If the override slot does not release the shifter, you may need to access the shift lock solenoid from below the console by removing lower trim panels. As a last resort, the vehicle can be pulled onto a flatbed with the transmission in Park using wheel dollies.