🚨 2005 Mitsubishi Colt JP: Emergency Neutral
The 2002-2008 Mitsubishi Colt (Z20 series, Japan/Europe market) uses a console-mounted automatic shifter with electronic shift interlock.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — details like the exact override location may vary by trim; verify visually before prying anything.
⚠️ 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 firmly engaged and wheels are chocked
- Turn ignition to ACC or ON position if battery has any charge remaining
- Locate the shift lock override - look for a small plastic cap or slot near the shifter base, typically on the left side or front of the shifter surround
- Remove the plastic cap by prying gently with a flathead screwdriver or your fingernail
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver or key blade into the override slot
- Press down firmly on the override while simultaneously pressing the shifter button and moving the shifter to Neutral
- Release the override tool once shifter is in Neutral position
Shift-lock override location
Small slot near the shifter base, typically on the left side or front-left of the shifter console surround, covered by a removable plastic cap
With zero electrical power
The shift lock override is a mechanical release that functions without battery power. With completely dead battery, the ignition key may not turn easily and power steering will not function when moving the vehicle, so plan accordingly for manual steering effort.