🚨 2015 Buick Regal: Emergency Neutral
The 2015 Buick Regal eAssist hybrid uses a traditional console-mounted automatic 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 parking brake is firmly set and the vehicle is on level ground
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position if possible (provides power to release shift lock)
- Firmly press and hold the brake pedal
- Locate the shift lock override access - look for a small rectangular cap or slot on the left side of the shifter base, near the driver's side
- Use a flat-blade screwdriver or similar tool to pry off the access cap
- Insert the screwdriver into the override slot and press down firmly while pulling the shifter out of Park
- Move the shifter to Neutral
- If ignition is off, you may need to maintain pressure on the override while shifting
Shift-lock override location
Small access slot/cap on the left side of the shifter base near the console
With zero electrical power
With completely dead 12V battery, the shift lock will not release electronically. You must use the mechanical shift lock override. Jump-starting the vehicle or connecting a jump box to provide minimal power to the shifter solenoid may make the override easier to actuate. The eAssist hybrid system requires 12V power for all functions.
⚡ EV / hybrid warning
The eAssist is a mild hybrid - the 12V battery powers all vehicle systems including the shift lock. Even though this has electric assist, treat towing like a conventional automatic transmission. Neutral towing for short distances may be acceptable per owner's manual, but flatbed is always safest to avoid potential damage to the hybrid transaxle components.