🚨 2016 Lincoln MKZ: Emergency Neutral
The 2016 MKZ Hybrid features a console-mounted electronic shifter lever with electronic 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 a level surface.
- Attempt to turn the ignition to the ON or ACC position if any 12V battery power is present.
- Locate the shift lock override slot: it is on the left side of the shifter console base, covered by a small removable cap.
- Remove the cap using a flat-blade screwdriver or your finger (pry gently).
- Insert a flat-blade screwdriver, key, or similar tool into the override slot and press down firmly.
- While holding the override, press the brake pedal (if 12V power is available) and shift the lever to Neutral.
- If there is no 12V power at all, you must jump-start the battery first—see 'No Power Notes'.
Shift-lock override location
Small capped slot on the left side of the shifter console base (driver's side of the shifter)
With zero electrical power
If the 12V battery is completely dead, the shifter interlock and vehicle electronics will not operate. Jump-start the 12V battery (located in the trunk) using jumper cables or a portable jump starter. Once you have 12V power, use the shift lock override to release the shifter and move it to Neutral. The hybrid high-voltage battery does not power the 12V systems directly.
⚡ EV / hybrid warning
The MKZ Hybrid has a high-voltage battery pack and a hybrid transaxle that can be damaged by improper towing. Do NOT tow this vehicle with the drive (front) wheels on the ground unless the vehicle is in Neutral and the hybrid system is active (Ready mode). For a dead vehicle, always use a flatbed or a wheel-lift tow truck with the front wheels off the ground.