🚨 2001 Lincoln Continental: Emergency Neutral
The 2001 Lincoln Continental uses a column-mounted gear selector 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 parking brake is set and vehicle is on level ground
- Turn the ignition key to the ON or ACC position if battery has any charge remaining
- Locate the shift-lock override access: look on the right side of the column shroud near the shifter lever base for a small rectangular or round cover
- Use a small flathead screwdriver to carefully pry off the cover
- Insert a screwdriver, ignition key, or similar tool into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, press the shifter release button and move the lever to Neutral
- Replace the cover after shifting
Shift-lock override location
Right side of the steering column shroud near the shifter base, under a small cover (rectangular or round plastic cap)
With zero electrical power
The shift-lock override mechanism is typically mechanical and should work without 12V power. If the steering column lock is also engaged due to complete power loss, the shifter may remain locked. In such cases, the vehicle must be towed with rear wheels lifted or on a flatbed.