How to Shift to Neutral When an Automatic Car Won't Start?
2 Answers
All automatic transmission vehicles are equipped with a mechanical shift button, typically located near the gear lever, commonly labeled as SHIFT. By pressing this button, you can shift from D/R gear to N gear, which is neutral. Solutions for when an automatic car won't start: 1. Seek assistance from a rescue center: Automatic cars cannot be push-started. If you're on a highway or in a place without help or tools, the only option is to contact an emergency rescue center to dispatch an emergency charging vehicle for a quick charge or to tow the car to the nearest repair shop for maintenance and charging. 2. Charger: If the car's battery is dead at home or another inhabited location and no spare battery is available, as long as you can find a charger, you can charge the car battery yourself. Depending on the situation, you can also remove the car battery and take it home for a quick charge.
My car is an automatic transmission, and once it also had a situation where it wouldn't start, requiring me to push it in neutral. Most automatic transmission models have an emergency gear-shifting function called the shift lock override button, usually hidden under a small cover near the gear lever. Common reasons for the car not starting include a dead battery or ignition system failure. First, ensure the vehicle is safely parked and the handbrake is engaged. Locate that button, press it firmly with a key or your finger for one or two seconds, while gently pushing the gear lever to the N position—you'll feel it move smoothly. After shifting, check the dashboard to confirm it's in neutral, then you can push the car or call for towing services. I recommend checking the vehicle manual in advance to familiarize yourself with the button's location. Avoid operating on slopes to prevent rolling, and after completing the process, promptly check the battery, jump-start, or take it to a repair shop. This trick can help avoid the embarrassment of a breakdown, but never force it to avoid damaging the transmission.
