🚨 2019 Honda Ridgeline: Emergency Neutral
The 2019 Ridgeline uses a traditional console-mounted automatic shifter lever with electronic shift lock.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — cross-check against your owner’s manual when possible.
⚠️ 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 level ground and set the parking brake firmly
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position if battery has any charge remaining
- Locate the shift lock override slot - it's a small rectangular opening covered by a removable cap on the left side of the shifter base
- Use a flathead screwdriver or the metal key blade to carefully pry off the small plastic cap covering the override slot
- Insert the screwdriver or key firmly into the override slot and push down while simultaneously pressing the brake pedal (if possible) and pulling the shifter toward you out of Park
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be moved or loaded onto a flatbed
Shift-lock override location
Left side of the shifter base, covered by a small removable plastic cap
With zero electrical power
With zero power, the shift lock override still works mechanically. You do not need ignition power to use the override slot - simply insert the tool into the slot, press down firmly, and move the shifter. The mechanical override bypasses all electronics.