🚨 2012 Ford Fusion: Emergency Neutral
The 2012 Fusion Hybrid uses a traditional console-mounted PRNDL lever shifter with an electronic shift lock.
✓ 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 vehicle is on a flat surface and set the parking brake firmly.
- Turn the ignition to the ON/ACC position if battery power is available (hybrid system does not need to be READY).
- Press and hold the brake pedal firmly.
- Locate the shift lock override slot: it is a small rectangular slot with a plastic cap cover located on the left side of the shifter base, toward the driver's side.
- Use a flathead screwdriver or key to pry off the plastic cap covering the override slot.
- Insert a flathead screwdriver, key, or similar tool into the override slot and press down firmly while simultaneously moving the shifter out of Park.
- If successful, shift to Neutral and release the parking brake only when ready to move the vehicle.
Shift-lock override location
Left side of the shifter base (driver's side), under a small rectangular plastic cap
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead 12V battery, the shift lock override will still function mechanically. Use the override slot procedure above. You may need to manually release the electronic parking brake if equipped - consult owner's manual for emergency brake release. The steering wheel will remain locked, making towing difficult; a jump start or battery replacement is recommended before moving.
⚡ EV / hybrid warning
This is a hybrid vehicle. The high-voltage battery does not need to be active to shift to neutral. However, if the 12V battery is dead, the hybrid system will not engage and the vehicle must be towed with the front wheels OFF the ground (flatbed or dollies required) to prevent damage to the electric drive components in the transaxle. Do NOT tow with front wheels on the ground for any distance.