🚨 2013 Buick Encore: Emergency Neutral
The 2013 Encore (first model year) uses a center console-mounted shifter with electronic 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 parking brake is firmly set
- Turn the ignition to ON/RUN position if battery has any charge
- Locate the shift lock override slot near the shifter: look for a small rectangular access point with a cover on the left side of the shifter base
- Remove the cover by prying gently with a flat-head screwdriver
- Insert a flat-head screwdriver, key, or similar tool into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal (if power available) and move the shifter to Neutral
- If no power is available, hold the override down and manually move the shifter to Neutral without the brake
Shift-lock override location
Left side of the shifter base, under a small rectangular cover
With zero electrical power
With no power, the mechanical override still functions. Insert tool into override slot, press down, and shift to Neutral manually. Steering will remain locked, so the vehicle must be transported on a flatbed or towed with front wheels raised.