🚨 2024 Ram 3500: Emergency Neutral
The 2024 Ram 3500 uses a column-mounted or console-mounted electronic shift lever (depending on trim level), with electronic shift interlock controlled by the brake-light switch circuit.
✓ 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 applied (if functional)
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position if battery has any charge remaining
- For column shifter: locate the small circular shift lock override access cover on the left side of the shifter housing, beneath the shift lever
- For console shifter: locate the shift lock override slot, typically found under a small rectangular cap to the right of the shifter base or in the console cavity near the shifter boot
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or similar tool to remove the override access cover
- Insert the screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down firmly while simultaneously pulling the shift lever toward you and moving it to Neutral
- If the vehicle has a console shifter with a rotary dial (select trims), there is no mechanical override—you must have electrical power to shift
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be moved or loaded onto a flatbed
Shift-lock override location
Column shifter: small circular access cover on left side of shifter housing beneath the lever; Console shifter: rectangular cap to the right of shifter base or in console cavity near shifter boot
With zero electrical power
With zero electrical power, the electronic shifter will not function normally. The mechanical shift lock override is your only option for column and traditional console shifters. If the vehicle has a rotary dial shifter, it requires 12V power—you will need to jump-start the battery or connect a power source to access Neutral. Without power and with a rotary shifter, the vehicle must be dollied or flatbedded with rear wheels off the ground.