🚨 1999 Honda Passport: Emergency Neutral
The 1999 Honda Passport (rebadged Isuzu Rodeo) uses a traditional floor-mounted console shifter with a button on the side of the shifter handle.
✓ 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 key to the ON position (or ACC if battery is weak but not completely dead) to unlock the steering wheel.
- Locate the shift lock override slot, which is a small covered opening near the base of the shifter console, typically on the right side or front edge of the shifter boot.
- Use a flathead screwdriver or similar tool to remove the small plastic cover over the override slot.
- Insert the screwdriver or a key into the override slot and press down firmly while simultaneously pressing the brake pedal (if power available) and the shifter button.
- While holding the override down, move the shifter from Park to Neutral.
- If successful, the vehicle can now roll freely; keep your foot on the brake or use wheel chocks.
Shift-lock override location
Small covered slot near the base of the shifter console, typically to the right or front of the shifter boot; requires removing a plastic cap.
With zero electrical power
With zero electrical power, the shift lock override will still function mechanically. You do NOT need battery power to use the override slot. Turn the key to ACC position if possible to unlock the steering wheel, but the shifter override itself is purely mechanical and will work without any electrical power.