🚨 2017 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited: Emergency Neutral
The 2017 Wrangler Unlimited JK uses a traditional PRNDL console-mounted shifter with a mechanical shift interlock.
✓ 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
- Set the parking brake firmly and chock the wheels.
- Turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON position (engine does not need to start).
- Locate the shift lock override slot: on the center console, find the small rectangular rubber cap or plastic cover directly to the left of the shifter lever base (toward the driver's side).
- Pry off the cap using a flathead screwdriver or your fingernail.
- Press and hold the brake pedal.
- Insert a flathead screwdriver, key, or similar tool into the exposed override slot and push down firmly.
- While holding the override down and pressing the brake, shift from Park to Neutral.
- Release the override, replace the cap, and the vehicle can now roll.
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular cap on the left side of the shifter base on the center console, between the shifter and the driver's seat.
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead battery, turn the key to ACC position if possible (this may work even with low voltage). The shift lock override is mechanical and should work with minimal or no electrical power. If the key will not turn at all, attempt the override procedure without turning the key—push the override down firmly and attempt to shift. If this fails, jump-start the 12V battery under the hood to provide minimal power.