🚨 2016 Lincoln MKX: Emergency Neutral
The 2016 Lincoln MKX uses a traditional console-mounted gear selector lever with electronic shift lock.
✓ 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 ON position (or press START without pressing the brake pedal twice to reach ON/accessory mode).
- Locate the shift lock override slot—it is a small covered opening near the base of the shifter assembly on the left side.
- Use a flathead screwdriver or similar tool to remove the small rubber or plastic cap covering the override slot.
- Insert the screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down firmly.
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal (if 12V power is available) and move the shifter to NEUTRAL.
- If no power is available, continue holding the override down and apply manual force to move the shifter to NEUTRAL—it may require significant effort.
Shift-lock override location
Small covered slot near the base of the shifter console on the left side of the shifter lever.
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead battery, the shift lock override will still function mechanically. Use the override slot and apply steady force to move the shifter to NEUTRAL. You may need to rock the vehicle slightly if the parking pawl is under load. Consider jump-starting or connecting auxiliary power to unlock the steering column if it's locked.