🚨 2020 Jeep Compass: Emergency Neutral
The 2020 Compass uses a traditional console-mounted shifter with electronic shift lock and a physical override release, unchanged from prior years.
✓ 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 parking brake is firmly engaged and the vehicle is on level ground
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position if battery has any charge remaining
- Locate the shift lock override slot: it is a small covered slot on the left side of the shifter base, near the console trim
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or the metal end of an ignition key to pry off the small rectangular cover cap
- Insert the screwdriver or key straight down into the override slot while pressing the brake pedal
- While holding the override down, press the shifter button and move the shifter to Neutral
- If the ignition cannot be powered on, the shifter will be very stiff but the override should still allow movement to Neutral with firm pressure
Shift-lock override location
Small covered rectangular slot on the left side of the shifter base near the console trim, requires removing a snap-on cover cap
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the shift lock override will still function mechanically, but you will not be able to turn the ignition to ACC. The steering wheel will remain locked. Apply firm downward pressure on the override while manipulating the shifter - it will be significantly stiffer than normal. You may need to rock the vehicle slightly to relieve transmission pressure if the shifter will not move.