🚨 1998 Mitsubishi Galant: Emergency Neutral
The 1998 Galant uses a floor-mounted console shifter with a P-R-N-D-2-L gate and a thumb button release on the shifter handle.
🧰 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
- Apply the parking brake firmly and chock the wheels.
- Turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON position if possible to unlock the steering column.
- Locate the shift lock override access—look for a small rectangular or circular plastic cap near the shifter base, typically located to the right of the shifter near the P gate position.
- Use a flathead screwdriver or trim removal tool to carefully pry off the access cover.
- Insert a small screwdriver, pen, or the ignition key into the override slot beneath the cover.
- Press down firmly on the override mechanism while simultaneously pressing the shifter button and moving the shifter from Park to Neutral.
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be pushed or loaded onto a flatbed.
Shift-lock override location
Small covered access point to the right of the shifter base near the Park position—typically a removable plastic cap on the console surface adjacent to the shifter.
With zero electrical power
With no battery power, the ignition cannot be turned to ACC/ON and the steering wheel will remain locked. The shift lock override is mechanical and functions without power, but you will not be able to steer. Vehicle must be towed with front wheels off the ground or on a flatbed due to steering lock.