Dealing with a dead battery in your Jeep Cherokee can be a frustrating situation, especially if you need to move the vehicle. However, it is possible to put your Jeep Cherokee in neutral even with a dead battery. In this article, we will discuss the step-by-step process to put a Jeep Cherokee in neutral with a dead battery.
Why Would You Need to Put Your Jeep Cherokee in Neutral With a Dead Battery?
There are several scenarios where you might need to put your Jeep Cherokee in neutral with a dead battery. Some of the common situations include:
- Needing to tow the vehicle
- Requiring access to the transmission for repairs
- Attempting to jump-start the vehicle
Regardless of the reason, knowing how to put your Jeep Cherokee in neutral can be a valuable skill to have in case of an emergency.
Steps to Put Your Jeep Cherokee in Neutral With a Dead Battery
Follow these steps to put your Jeep Cherokee in neutral when the battery is dead:
Step 1: Locate The Shift Interlock Override Slot
Most modern Jeeps, including the Cherokee, are equipped with a shift interlock system that prevents the gear shifter from moving out of the park position without the key in the ignition and the brake pedal depressed. To bypass this system, you will need to locate the shift interlock override slot, which is usually located near the gear shifter.
Step 2: Remove The Cover
Once you have located the shift interlock override slot, you may need to remove a small cover or cap to access it. This cover is typically removable with a small flat-head screwdriver or a similar tool. Carefully pry off the cover to reveal the slot underneath.
Step 3: Insert A Screwdriver Or Key
With the cover removed, you will see a slot where you can insert a screwdriver or the key from your key fob. Carefully insert the screwdriver or key into the slot to depress the shift interlock override mechanism.
Step 4: Depress The Shift Interlock Override Mechanism
While holding the screwdriver or key in place, you will need to depress the shift interlock override mechanism. This may require some force, but be cautious not to use excessive pressure that could damage the mechanism. As you depress the override, you should feel the gear shifter unlocking from the park position.
Step 5: Shift To Neutral
Once the shift interlock override mechanism has been depressed, you should be able to move the gear shifter out of the park position. Shift the gear shifter to the neutral position, which will allow you to move the Jeep Cherokee as needed, whether for towing, repairs, or jump-starting.
Precautions and Considerations
When putting your Jeep Cherokee in neutral with a dead battery, it’s important to keep the following precautions in mind:
- Always engage the parking brake before moving the vehicle to prevent it from rolling.
- Exercise caution and be mindful of your surroundings when moving a vehicle with a dead battery.
- Seek professional assistance if you are unsure about how to safely put your Jeep Cherokee in neutral.
Conclusion
While dealing with a dead battery in your Jeep Cherokee can be inconvenient, knowing how to put the vehicle in neutral can help you navigate the situation with ease. By following the step-by-step process outlined in this article, you can safely put your Jeep Cherokee in neutral and address the situation at hand.
Remember to exercise caution and seek professional help if needed, especially when dealing with automotive issues. Being prepared and informed about your vehicle can help you handle unexpected challenges that may arise.
Thank you for reading, and we hope this guide has been helpful to you!