🚨 1996 Plymouth Grand Voyager: Emergency Neutral
The 1996 Grand Voyager (third generation NS platform) uses a column-mounted automatic transmission shifter with 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 set and wheels are chocked
- Turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON position if battery has any charge remaining
- Locate the shift lock override access on the steering column - look for a small cover or slot on the left side of the column shroud near the shifter lever base
- Remove the small plastic cover if present by prying gently with a flathead screwdriver
- Insert a small screwdriver, pen, or similar tool into the override slot
- Press firmly into the slot to depress the shift lock release mechanism
- While holding pressure on the override, pull the shifter lever toward you and move down to Neutral
- The override must remain depressed while moving through the shift gate
Shift-lock override location
Left side of the steering column shroud near the shifter lever base; may have a small removable plastic cover over the access slot
With zero electrical power
The 1996 model's shift interlock is electronically controlled but has a mechanical override. With completely dead battery, the mechanical override slot will still function to release the shifter. Apply firm, steady pressure into the override slot while manipulating the shifter.