🚨 2013 GAZ Gazelle Next: Emergency Neutral
The 2013 GAZ Gazelle Next with automatic transmission typically uses a floor-mounted console shifter with electronic shift-lock 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
- Set the parking brake firmly and chock the wheels.
- Turn the ignition key to the ON position if battery has any remaining charge.
- Press the brake pedal (this may allow shift-lock to release if the brake switch itself is not the problem).
- Locate the shift-lock override access - look for a small rectangular cap or slot on the console near the shifter base, typically to the right or in front of the shifter.
- Remove the cap by prying gently with a flat-blade screwdriver.
- Insert a screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down firmly.
- While holding the override down, press the shifter button and move to Neutral.
- For flatbed loading, continue to Park after the vehicle is positioned.
Shift-lock override location
Console-mounted near the shifter base - look for a small removable cap on the console surface adjacent to the shifter; exact position varies by cab configuration (standard vs. business-class)
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the mechanical override is essential. The Gazelle Next's shift interlock is electronic, so the override physically releases the shifter lock. If the steering lock is engaged, you may need to insert the key and attempt to turn it slightly while moving the steering wheel to release the lock mechanism, though this may be difficult without power steering.