🚨 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee: Emergency Neutral
The 2021 Grand Cherokee (WK2 generation) uses a traditional center-console mounted electronic gear selector lever.
✓ 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 to the ACC or ON position if possible (battery permitting) to unlock the steering wheel
- Locate the shift lock override slot on the console – it is covered by a small rectangular plastic cap approximately 1 inch to the right rear of the shifter base
- Use a flat-head screwdriver or key to pry off the small cap covering the override slot
- Insert a flat-head screwdriver, ignition key, or similar tool into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override tool down, press the brake pedal (if power available) and move the shifter to Neutral
- If no brake power or signal, continue holding the override down and physically move the shifter – it should release into Neutral
- Keep the override tool pressed until the shifter is fully in Neutral position
- If the vehicle must be towed, ensure it remains in Neutral for flatbed loading
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular plastic cap approximately 1 inch to the right rear of the shifter base on the center console
With zero electrical power
With zero power, the steering wheel will be locked. You can still access the shift lock override and move to Neutral, but the vehicle cannot steer. Must be loaded onto a flatbed with wheels off the ground or use a wheel dolly. The override mechanism is mechanical and does not require electrical power to function.