🚨 2018 Buick LaCrosse: Emergency Neutral
The 2018 LaCrosse uses an electronic console-mounted shift lever with shift-lock that requires brake pedal application and electrical power to move out of Park.
🧰 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 parking brake is firmly applied and wheels are chocked
- Turn ignition to ON/RUN position if battery has any charge remaining
- Locate the shift lock override slot - it is a small covered access hole on the driver's side of the shifter base assembly, typically near the front-left corner of the shifter
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or the key blade to remove or pry up the small plastic cover over the override slot
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver, pen, or similar tool into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, press the shifter button and move the shifter out of Park to Neutral
- Keep foot on brake pedal during this process if the vehicle has any electrical power
Shift-lock override location
Small covered slot on the driver's side (left side) of the shifter base assembly near the front corner; exact position may vary slightly but is adjacent to the shifter lever base
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the shift lock override will still function mechanically. The override slot physically releases the Park lock mechanism without requiring power. Ensure ignition is in ACC or ON position if possible (key can be turned without battery). The electronic parking brake may remain engaged - if unable to release electronically, vehicle must be flatbedded.