🚨 2016 UAZ Pickup: Emergency Neutral
The 2016 UAZ Pickup with automatic transmission uses a column-mounted shifter lever with a mechanical shift lock mechanism typical of Russian commercial vehicles.
✓ 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 vehicle is on level ground with parking brake applied
- Turn ignition key to ACC or ON position if any battery power remains
- Locate the shift lock release - on UAZ column shifters, look for a small button, lever, or slot near the base of the column shifter assembly where it meets the steering column
- The release may be a small mechanical button on the underside or side of the shifter housing
- Press or pull the mechanical release while simultaneously pressing the shifter button and moving to Neutral
- If no release is visible, check for a small cover plate on the shifter housing that can be pried off to access a manual release slot
Shift-lock override location
Generally located on the column shifter housing near where the lever meets the steering column; may be a small button or slot under a cover on the side or bottom of the shifter assembly - requires visual inspection as UAZ documentation is limited
With zero electrical power
UAZ column shifters from this era typically use mechanical linkages. With zero power, the mechanical release should still function. The shift lock is usually a simple solenoid-actuated pin that can be manually overridden. If the mechanical release is not accessible, the vehicle must be towed in Park (not recommended) or the driveshaft may need disconnection for flatbed transport.