🚨 1996 Nissan Maxima: Emergency Neutral
The 1996 Maxima uses a traditional floor-mounted console shifter with a P-R-N-D-2-L gate and electronic shift interlock.
🧰 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 and the vehicle is on level ground
- Turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON position if battery power is available
- Locate the shift lock override slot - it is a small rectangular opening covered by a cap on the left side of the shifter base near the P position
- Use a flat-head screwdriver or the key to pry off the small cap covering the override slot
- Insert a flat-head screwdriver or similar tool into the override slot and push down firmly
- While holding the tool down, press the shifter button and move the shifter to Neutral
- Remove the tool and replace the cap
- The vehicle can now be moved or towed
Shift-lock override location
Left side of shifter base near Park position, under a small rectangular cap
With zero electrical power
With zero electrical power, the shift lock override will still function mechanically. You do not need battery power to use the override slot - simply follow the same procedure. The mechanical override releases the lock pin directly.