🚨 1991 Acura Integra: Emergency Neutral
The 1991 Acura Integra automatic transmission uses a conventional cable-actuated console shifter with mechanical shift lock.
🧰 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
- Ensure the vehicle is on a level surface and set the parking brake firmly.
- Turn the ignition key to ACC or ON position if battery power is available.
- Locate the shift lock override access point near the shifter base, typically on the left (driver's) side of the shifter housing.
- Remove any small plastic cap or cover over the override slot using your fingernail or a flat tool.
- Insert a flathead screwdriver, key, or similar flat object into the slot and press down to release the shift lock.
- While maintaining pressure on the override, move the shifter from Park to Neutral.
- Verify the shifter is secured in Neutral before releasing the override and parking brake.
Shift-lock override location
Left side of the shifter base near the driver's side of the console, usually covered by a small removable cap
With zero electrical power
The 1991 Integra's shift lock is primarily mechanical. With zero electrical power, the manual override release should still work—you do not need battery voltage to disengage the lock mechanism. Focus on locating and actuating the mechanical override slot.