🚨 2007 Dodge Nitro: Emergency Neutral
The 2007 Dodge Nitro uses a conventional PRNDL console-mounted automatic transmission shifter with electronic shift lock interlock.
🧰 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
- Set the parking brake firmly and chock the wheels
- Turn the ignition key to the ON/RUN position (do not attempt to start)
- Press and hold the brake pedal firmly
- Locate the small rectangular shift lock override cover on the console, directly to the left of the shifter base near the driver's side
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or trim tool to carefully pry off the override cover
- Insert a screwdriver, pen, or key into the exposed override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, press the shifter release button and move the shifter to Neutral
- Remove the tool and replace the cover cap
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular plastic cover located on the center console directly to the left of the shifter base (driver's side), approximately 1 inch from the shifter lever
With zero electrical power
With zero electrical power, the mechanical shift lock override will still function. Insert a tool into the override slot and press down to manually release the shift lock mechanism. If the override does not work, the 12V battery may need minimal charge for the interlock solenoid - try jump-starting even briefly. In extreme cases, the shift lock solenoid can be accessed by removing the center console side trim panels.