🚨 2012 Mitsubishi Colt JP: Emergency Neutral
The 2012 Mitsubishi Colt uses a floor-mounted console shifter with a traditional PRNDL gate and electronic shift lock.
🧰 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 the vehicle is on level ground and the parking brake is firmly engaged
- Turn the ignition key to ACC or ON position if battery has any charge remaining
- Locate the shift lock override slot - it is typically a small rectangular or circular cover near the shifter base on the right side
- Use a flathead screwdriver or similar tool to pry off the override cover cap
- Insert the screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down firmly while simultaneously pulling the shifter button and moving to Neutral
- If successful, the shifter will release and you can move it to N
Shift-lock override location
Small covered slot near the shifter base, typically on the right side of the shifter console - look for a removable cap approximately 10-15mm in diameter
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the shift lock override is mechanical and will still function. You do NOT need electrical power to use the override - the mechanical release bypasses the electronic interlock. However, you may need to manually turn the steering wheel while applying force to unlock the steering column lock.