🚨 2016 Nissan NP300: Emergency Neutral
The 2016 NP300 uses a column-mounted automatic shifter with a shift-lock mechanism identical to the 2015 model.
✓ 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
- Engage the parking brake firmly and chock the wheels.
- Turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON position if the battery has any charge remaining.
- Locate the shift-lock override slot, typically a small rectangular or round opening covered by a trim cap on the lower right side of the steering column shroud near the shifter base.
- Use a flathead screwdriver or similar tool to carefully pry off the cap covering the override slot.
- Insert a small screwdriver, key, or similar rigid object into the override slot and press down firmly.
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal (if power available) and move the shifter to Neutral.
- If no electrical power is available, turn the key to ACC (this often mechanically unlocks the column), then use the override and move the shifter without the brake pedal.
Shift-lock override location
Small trim-covered slot on the lower right side of the steering column shroud, near the base of the column shifter.
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the steering column lock may engage. If the key can turn to ACC, this often releases the column lock mechanically. Use the shift-lock override slot and manually move the shifter to Neutral without pressing the brake. If the column remains locked, the vehicle may need to be towed with the front wheels off the ground or a tow dolly.