🚨 1994 Mitsubishi Montero: Emergency Neutral
The 1994 Montero uses a column-mounted automatic shifter with mechanical 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 parking brake is firmly applied
- Turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON position if possible
- Locate the shift lock override release near the steering column shifter
- Look for a small rectangular slot or cover on the lower left side of the steering column shroud near the shifter base
- Pry off the small cover cap if present using a flat-head screwdriver
- Insert a small screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down or pull the release mechanism
- While holding the release activated, move the shifter from Park to Neutral
- The shifter should move freely once the mechanical lock is released
Shift-lock override location
Small slot or button on the lower left side of the steering column shroud near the base of the shifter lever, typically covered by a removable cap
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead battery, the mechanical shift lock override still functions without any electrical power. Firmly engage the parking brake, locate and activate the mechanical release, and shift to Neutral. No electrical power is required for the override mechanism.