🚨 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer: Emergency Neutral
The 2013 Lancer uses a traditional center console-mounted automatic transmission lever with electronic shift lock.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — cross-check against your owner’s manual when possible.
⚠️ 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
- Engage the parking brake firmly and chock the wheels
- Turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON position (does not need to start)
- Locate the shift lock override slot – it is a small rectangular opening with a cover cap located on the right side of the shifter base, toward the front of the console
- Use a flat-head screwdriver or key to pry off the small plastic cap covering the override slot
- Insert a small flat-head screwdriver or similar tool into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal and move the shifter to Neutral
- If the vehicle is completely dead and ignition cannot be turned, you must access the override slot in the same location and manually override while physically moving the shifter – this may require significant force
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot with plastic cap on the right side of the shifter base near the front of the console
With zero electrical power
With zero electrical power, the ignition key may not turn to ACC. In this case, the mechanical shift lock override still functions – remove the cap and press the override while applying strong manual force to move the shifter to Neutral. The shifter will be stiff but can be moved mechanically.