🚨 1993 Buick Roadmaster: Emergency Neutral
The 1993 Roadmaster uses a column-mounted shifter with electronic shift lock controlled by the brake interlock system.
🧰 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 applied and the vehicle is on level ground or properly chocked
- Turn the ignition to the ACC or ON position if battery power is available
- Locate the shift lock override - look for a small removable cap or access panel on the lower steering column shroud near the base of the shifter lever
- Remove the override cap using your finger or a small flathead screwdriver
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver, pen, or similar tool into the override slot and press firmly
- While holding the override depressed, press the shifter button on the end of the stalk and move the shifter to Neutral
- For long-distance towing, disconnect the driveshaft or use a flatbed
Shift-lock override location
Small capped access on the lower steering column shroud near the shifter lever base
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the shift lock override still functions mechanically. You do not need electrical power to use the override. However, without battery power you cannot turn the ignition to release the steering lock, so steering will be locked. For loading onto a flatbed with a dead battery, use the shift lock override to access Neutral while pushing/winching the vehicle with locked steering.