🚨 1995 Dodge Spirit: Emergency Neutral
The 1995 Dodge Spirit (final model year) uses a column-mounted shifter with a brake-transmission shift interlock (BTSI) system that requires brake pedal depression to shift out of Park.
✓ 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
- Ensure the parking brake is engaged and wheels are chocked
- Insert the key and turn the ignition to ACC or ON position (this is mechanical but shift interlock may need some power)
- Press and hold the brake pedal firmly
- Move the shifter from Park to Neutral
- If the shifter will not move, locate the shift lock override release on the steering column
- Find the small access cover near the base of the shifter lever on the column shroud (typically left side or bottom)
- Remove or pry open the access cover
- Insert a small flat-blade screwdriver into the override slot
- Push the override release mechanism while simultaneously moving the shifter toward Neutral
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be moved or loaded
Shift-lock override location
Small access slot near the base of the column shifter, covered by a removable plastic cap on the left or bottom side of the steering column shroud
With zero electrical power
The key can be turned to ACC mechanically without battery power. The shift lock override should function mechanically even with a completely dead battery, as it physically releases the shift lever lock mechanism. If the override mechanism is broken or cannot be accessed, the vehicle must be loaded onto a flatbed with the transmission in Park (front wheels will need to be lifted or dollied).