🚨 2016 Buick Encore: Emergency Neutral
The 2016 Encore features a center console-mounted shifter with electronic shift lock mechanism.
🧰 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 base: look for a small rectangular access point with a cover on the left side
- Remove the cover using 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, maintain pressure on the override and manually shift to Neutral without the brake
Shift-lock override location
Left side of the shifter base assembly, under a small cover
With zero electrical power
The mechanical override functions without electrical power. Insert tool into override slot, press down, and manually shift to Neutral. Steering remains locked without power; vehicle must be transported on flatbed or towed with front wheels off the ground.