🚨 1990-1997 Buick Regal: Emergency Neutral
The 1990-1997 Buick Regal uses a column-mounted shifter with a push-button release on the side of the shifter stalk.
🧰 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
- Set the parking brake firmly and chock the wheels.
- Insert the key and turn it to the ACC or ON position (if the battery has any charge).
- Locate the shift lock override access, typically found as a small slot or hole near the base of the column shifter, beneath or adjacent to the steering column trim.
- If a plastic cover is present on the column near the shifter, carefully pry it off to expose the override mechanism.
- Insert a small flat-blade screwdriver or similar tool into the override access and push or pull as needed to mechanically release the shift lock.
- While holding the override mechanism, press the shifter button and move the shifter to Neutral.
- If the key will not turn or the steering wheel is locked, rock the steering wheel back and forth while turning the key.
Shift-lock override location
Look for a small access slot or hole near the base of the column shifter, typically on or beneath the steering column trim near the shifter mechanism.
With zero electrical power
With zero electrical power, the key may not turn to ACC. Use the shift lock override mechanism (does not require power) to mechanically release the shifter. You may need to rock the steering wheel to unlock the steering column. The override is a mechanical release that functions without battery power.