🚨 2020 Ram 1500: Emergency Neutral
The 2020 Ram 1500 (DT generation) uses a column-mounted shift lever 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
- Set the parking brake and chock the wheels.
- If battery power is available, press the start button to ACC mode without pressing the brake pedal.
- Locate the shift lock override slot on the right side of the steering column shroud, near the base of the shift lever.
- Remove the small plastic cap covering the override slot.
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver into the slot and press down firmly.
- While holding the override, press the brake pedal (if you have power) or move the shift lever to Neutral.
- If the battery is completely dead, refer to the no-power notes.
Shift-lock override location
Small slot on the right side of the steering column shroud near the shift lever base, covered by a plastic cap.
With zero electrical power
Without electrical power, the shift interlock will not disengage. Provide 12V via jump pack or jumper cables, press the start button to ACC (no brake), then use the override. If no external power is available, load the truck onto a flatbed with the front wheels raised using dollies or a winch.