🚨 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk: Emergency Neutral
The 2018 Trackhawk uses a traditional electronic console-mounted shifter with push-button start and electronic shift interlock.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — details like the exact override location may vary by trim; verify visually before prying anything.
⚠️ 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 level surface and apply the parking brake firmly
- Turn the ignition to the ACC or ON position (push the start button twice without pressing the brake pedal)
- Press and hold the brake pedal firmly
- If the shifter still won't move, locate the shift lock override slot - it is a small rectangular opening covered by a removable cap on the left side of the shifter base near the driver's side
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or the metal key blade to pry off the cap covering the override slot
- Insert the key blade or small screwdriver into the override slot and push down firmly while simultaneously moving the shifter to Neutral
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be moved or rolled
Shift-lock override location
Left side of the shifter base console, under a removable rectangular cap near the driver's side of the shifter - approximately where the shifter meets the console trim
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead battery, you cannot access ACC mode electronically. Use the shift lock override slot directly: remove the cap on the left side of the shifter base, insert the key blade, press down firmly, and move the shifter to Neutral. The override is mechanical and does not require power.