🚨 2002 Lincoln Blackwood: Emergency Neutral
The 2002 Lincoln Blackwood uses a column-mounted gear selector lever with electronic shift-lock 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
- Ensure the parking brake is firmly set and the vehicle is on level ground
- Turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON position if battery has any charge
- Locate the shift-lock override slot: look for a small circular cap or cover on the column shroud directly adjacent to the shifter base on the right side
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or similar tool to pry off the cap
- Insert the screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down firmly while simultaneously pulling the shifter toward you and moving it to Neutral
- If successful, the shifter will release and you can move it to N
Shift-lock override location
Column shroud near the shifter base on the right side, under a small circular cap
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the column lock may also engage. If the override slot does not release the shifter, the steering column lock may need to be manually released by a locksmith or the vehicle may need to be dollied with rear wheels off the ground. The shift-lock override typically works mechanically even without power.