🚨 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution: Emergency Neutral
The 2009 Lancer Evolution uses a conventional floor-mounted console shifter with electronic shift-lock.
✓ 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 chock the wheels.
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position if battery has any charge.
- Locate the shift-lock override slot on the console: look for a small rectangular cover/cap directly adjacent to the shifter base on the right side (passenger side) of the shifter.
- Use a flathead screwdriver or similar tool to carefully pry off the override cover cap.
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver, key, or similar tool into the override slot and press down firmly.
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal (if possible) and move the shifter to Neutral.
- If the shifter won't move with the override pressed, wiggle the steering wheel while applying pressure to release any steering lock tension.
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular cap on the right side (passenger side) of the shifter base on the center console; pry off cap to access override slot
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the shift-lock override should still function mechanically. You do NOT need ignition power to use the override—simply access the override slot, press down with a tool, and shift to Neutral. The steering wheel may be locked; if needed, turn the key manually in the ignition while moving the wheel to unlock it.