🚨 2017 Nissan Pathfinder: Emergency Neutral
The 2017 Pathfinder uses a traditional console-mounted automatic transmission lever 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
- Ensure the vehicle is on a level surface and parking brake is firmly engaged.
- Turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON position if battery has any charge remaining.
- Locate the shift lock override slot—it is a small rectangular opening with a plastic cap cover located on the left side of the shifter base, near the front of the shifter assembly on the center console.
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or similar tool to pry off the plastic cap covering the override slot.
- Press the brake pedal firmly (if battery has power).
- Insert the screwdriver or a rigid tool straight down into the override slot and press down firmly.
- While holding the override down, move the shifter from Park to Neutral.
- Remove the tool and replace the cap cover.
- The vehicle can now be moved or started (if the issue was shift-lock related and not battery).
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot with plastic cap on the left side of the shifter base, toward the front of the shifter assembly on the center console.
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the shift lock override will still function mechanically. You do NOT need to turn the key or have any electrical power to use the override—simply remove the cap, press down the override with a tool, and shift to Neutral. However, without power, the steering wheel will be locked; you will need to unlock it manually or have the vehicle on a flatbed. You cannot start the engine without battery power.