🚨 2013 Dodge Ram 3500: Emergency Neutral
The 2013 Ram 3500 uses a column-mounted PRNDL shifter with an electronic brake-shift interlock system that must be overridden when power is unavailable.
✓ 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 and chock the wheels securely
- If any battery power exists, turn the ignition key to ACC or ON position
- Find the shift interlock override access: on the steering column shroud, locate a small plastic cap on the right side near the base of the shifter lever
- Remove the access cap by pulling it straight away from the column (may require gentle prying with a trim tool)
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver, hex key, or similar rigid tool into the override slot
- Push the tool firmly into the slot approximately 1/2 inch to compress the mechanical override release
- While maintaining pressure on the override tool, press the brake pedal and shift the lever from Park to Neutral
- With zero electrical power: the mechanical override still functions—keep the tool pressed in and move the shifter without needing brake pedal electrical signal
- Once in Neutral, vehicle can be moved; for towing diesel models, flatbed is strongly recommended to avoid driveline or transmission damage
Shift-lock override location
Small plastic-capped access slot on the right side of the steering column shroud, adjacent to the shifter lever mounting point
With zero electrical power
The shift interlock override is a mechanical release. With no power, insert the override tool into the access slot, press firmly, and shift to Neutral. Electrical brake signal is not required for emergency override.