🚨 1999 Nissan Quest: Emergency Neutral
The 1999 Quest (second generation) uses a column-mounted automatic shifter with an electronic shift lock interlock system.
🧰 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
- Set the parking brake firmly and chock the wheels
- Turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON position if battery has any charge
- Locate the shift lock override button or slot near the base of the column shifter on the steering column shroud
- Look for a small rectangular or circular cap that may need to be pried off with a flathead screwdriver
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver or similar tool into the override slot
- Press and hold the override release while simultaneously pulling the shifter toward neutral
- Keep the override depressed until the transmission is securely in neutral
Shift-lock override location
Near the base of the column shifter on the steering column shroud, typically under a small removable cap—check both left and right sides of the column
With zero electrical power
With zero power, the mechanical shift lock override will still function. The override is mechanical and does not require battery power. If you cannot turn the key due to a dead battery, proceed directly to using the override slot without turning the ignition.