🚨 2013 Lincoln MKZ: Emergency Neutral
The 2013 MKZ Hybrid uses a console-mounted electronic shifter lever (push-button start models) with 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 ensure the vehicle is on level ground.
- Attempt to turn the ignition to ON or ACC (if battery allows) to unlock the steering and enable the shifter release.
- Locate the shift lock override: on the left side of the shifter console base, look for a small rectangular slot covered by a rubber cap or trim piece.
- Remove the cap by prying gently with a flat-blade screwdriver.
- Insert a screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down firmly.
- While holding the override, press the brake pedal (if 12V power is available) and move the shifter to Neutral.
- If the 12V battery is completely dead, you must jump-start the 12V battery first—see 'No Power Notes'.
Shift-lock override location
Small slot with rubber cap on the left side of the shifter console base (driver's side of shifter)
With zero electrical power
With no 12V power, the electronic shifter and interlock will not function. Jump-start the 12V battery (trunk-mounted) using jumper cables or a portable jump pack. Once you have 12V power, use the shift lock override procedure to move to Neutral. The high-voltage hybrid system does not provide 12V power to the shifter.
⚡ EV / hybrid warning
The MKZ Hybrid has a high-voltage traction battery and hybrid transaxle. Do NOT tow with any wheels on the ground unless the vehicle is in Neutral and the hybrid system is powered on (ready mode). For a dead vehicle, always use a flatbed or tow with the front wheels lifted. Towing the vehicle with the drive wheels on the ground can cause severe transaxle and electrical damage.