🚨 2016 Ram 1500: Emergency Neutral
The 2016 Ram 1500 retains the column-mounted shifter with electronic shift interlock (BTSI).
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — cross-check against your owner’s manual when possible.
⚠️ 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 and chock the wheels securely.
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON if any battery power is available.
- Locate the shift lock override slot on the right side of the column shroud, near the base of the shift lever.
- Remove the small plastic cap covering the override slot.
- Insert a small screwdriver into the override slot and press down firmly.
- While holding the override, press the brake pedal (if you have power) or move the shift lever into Neutral.
- If completely dead, see no-power notes.
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot on the right side of the steering column shroud near the shift lever base, typically covered by a removable cap.
With zero electrical power
Without electrical power, the interlock solenoid remains engaged. Connect a jump pack or jumper cables to provide 12V, turn the key to ACC, then use the override procedure. If no jump source is available, the vehicle must be loaded onto a flatbed with front wheels off the ground (use wheel dollies or winch).