🚨 2002 Buick Regal: Emergency Neutral
The 2002 Buick Regal uses a traditional column-mounted shifter with a push-button shift-lock release.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — cross-check against your owner’s manual when possible.
⚠️ 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
- Turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON position if you have any battery power
- Locate the shift-lock override button on the top of the steering column shroud, just behind and to the right of the shifter lever
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver or key into the override slot
- Press down firmly on the override while simultaneously pulling the shifter toward you and moving it to Neutral
- If the key won't turn due to dead battery, you may need to jump-start the vehicle or manually override the steering lock by turning the wheel slightly while turning the key
Shift-lock override location
Top of steering column shroud, directly behind and to the right of the column shifter lever base
With zero electrical power
With zero power, the shift-lock override still functions mechanically. However, the steering column lock may be engaged; if the key won't turn at all, try turning the steering wheel slightly left and right while attempting to turn the key to ACC. The override button works without electrical power.