🚨 2018 Buick Regal: Emergency Neutral
The 2018 Buick Regal (all-new sixth generation) uses an electronic precision shift console-mounted lever with shift-by-wire technology.
🧰 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 (required for shift-by-wire system)
- Firmly press and hold the brake pedal
- Locate the shift lock release - look for a small oval or rectangular cap on the console trim to the left of the shifter (driver's side of shifter base)
- Use a flat-blade screwdriver to carefully pry off the access cap
- Insert the screwdriver into the release slot and press down firmly
- While maintaining pressure on the release, move the shifter to Neutral
- The override mechanically releases the shift lock pawl, allowing manual shifter movement
Shift-lock override location
Small cap on the console trim to the left (driver's side) of the shifter base
With zero electrical power
The 2018+ Regal uses shift-by-wire, meaning the shifter sends electronic signals rather than a direct mechanical connection. With zero power, the mechanical override only releases the shift lock - it does NOT put the transmission into neutral. You must have at least minimal 12V power (jump box or jump start) to allow the transmission control module to command neutral. If completely dead and unable to jump, the vehicle must be placed on dollies or a flatbed.