🚨 1995 Buick Skylark: Emergency Neutral
The 1995 Skylark uses a traditional column-mounted automatic shifter with a mechanical 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 engaged and the vehicle is on level ground
- Turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON position if battery power is available
- Locate the shift lock override slot—it is a small rectangular opening near the base of the shifter on the column, typically covered by a small plastic cap
- Remove the cap by prying gently with a flat-blade screwdriver
- Insert a flat-blade screwdriver, key, or similar tool into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal (if power available) and move the shifter to Neutral
- If no brake power, continue holding the override and shift directly to Neutral
Shift-lock override location
Small slot near the shifter base on the steering column, usually covered by a plastic cap on the right side of the shifter
With zero electrical power
With no battery power, the shift lock may still be mechanically engaged. Use the shift lock override slot with a screwdriver or key to bypass the solenoid. The steering wheel will remain locked unless you can turn the key to ACC, so you'll need to tow with wheels off the ground or use a dolly.