🚨 1996 Dodge Stratus: Emergency Neutral
The 1996 Dodge Stratus uses a center console-mounted automatic transmission lever with mechanical shift interlock.
✓ 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
- Apply parking brake firmly and chock wheels
- Turn ignition to ON position if battery has any charge (key does not need to be all the way to START)
- Locate the shift lock override slot - it is a small rectangular opening near the base of the shifter on the right side or front right corner
- The override slot may be covered by a small plastic cap that can be pried out with your fingernail or a small flathead screwdriver
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver, pen, or similar tool into the override slot
- Press down firmly on the override while simultaneously pressing the shifter button and moving the lever to Neutral
- Keep brake pedal depressed during this process if possible
Shift-lock override location
Near the base of the center console shifter, typically on the right side or front-right corner, may be covered by a small removable plastic cap
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the shift lock override is mechanical and will still function. You do not need any electrical power to release the shifter using the override slot. However, without power you cannot turn the ignition to ON, which may make the steering wheel remain locked - ensure you can unlock the steering wheel (may require key in ignition and manual wiggling) before attempting to move the vehicle.