🚨 2007-2009 Dodge Ram 3500: Emergency Neutral
The 2007-2009 Ram 3500 diesel uses a column-mounted automatic shifter with electronic shift interlock, paired with heavy-duty diesel transmissions (typically 68RFE or Aisin).
✓ 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
- Set the parking brake firmly and chock the wheels (diesel models are especially heavy)
- Turn the ignition key to the ON position if any battery power is available
- Press and hold the brake pedal firmly
- Locate the shift lock override slot on the right side of the steering column shroud, near the base of the shifter lever - look for a small cap or rectangular opening
- Remove the cap by prying gently with a small screwdriver if present
- Insert a small flat-blade screwdriver, ignition key, or similar tool into the override slot
- Push the tool down or inward firmly while simultaneously pressing the shifter release button and pulling the lever toward you and down into Neutral
- Keep the tool engaged until the shifter is fully in Neutral position
Shift-lock override location
Right side of the steering column shroud, 1-2 inches below the shifter lever base, typically behind a small removable cap or visible as a small rectangular slot
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead battery, turn the ignition key to ACC position to mechanically unlock the steering. The shift lock override should work mechanically - apply firm, steady pressure with the tool while working the shifter. If the override fails, you must access the transmission shifter linkage from underneath: on the driver's side of the transmission (68RFE or Aisin AS68RC), locate the external shift lever, disconnect the shift cable, and manually move the lever to Neutral. The transmission lever typically moves 2 positions rearward from Park to reach Neutral. Use caution as diesel models are significantly heavier.