🚨 1995 Jeep Wrangler: Emergency Neutral
The 1995 Wrangler YJ with automatic transmission uses a floor-mounted traditional shifter lever with a mechanical shift lock controlled by a solenoid on the shifter base.
🧰 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 parking brake is firmly engaged and wheels are chocked
- Turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON position if battery has any charge remaining
- Locate the shift lock override slot on the right side of the shifter base console, usually covered by a small removable cap or rubber plug
- Remove the cap/plug to access the override release button or slot
- Insert a small screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down firmly while simultaneously pressing the brake pedal (if power available) and moving the shifter out of Park
- If successful, shift to Neutral and proceed with towing
Shift-lock override location
Right side of the shifter base console, typically covered by a small cap; look for a small rectangular or circular access point near where the shifter meets the console
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the shift lock solenoid may still be mechanically locked. Use the override release (press down firmly with screwdriver) to mechanically disengage the lock mechanism. The override is purely mechanical and does not require power to function.