🚨 2013 Buick Verano: Emergency Neutral
The 2013 Buick Verano uses a floor-mounted console shifter with an electronic shift interlock controlled by the brake-light switch and shift lock solenoid.
✓ Expert-verified by Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — master technicians, 20+ years each.
⚠️ 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 to the ON position if possible (this provides power to release the shift lock electronically).
- Press the brake pedal firmly and attempt to shift out of Park normally.
- If the shifter remains locked (due to dead battery or failed brake switch), locate the shift lock override slot on the console near the shifter base.
- Look for a small rectangular or circular cap/cover to the right or front-right of the shifter lever, often labeled or unmarked.
- Pry off the cap gently using a flat-head screwdriver or your fingernail.
- Insert a small screwdriver, key, or similar tool into the override slot and press down firmly.
- While holding the override down, press the shifter button and move the shifter to Neutral.
- Leave the vehicle in Neutral for towing or rolling.
Shift-lock override location
Small cap-covered slot on the center console to the right or front-right of the shifter base; cap is typically flush with the console trim and may be black or body-color matched.
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead battery, the electronic shift lock will not release. You must use the manual shift lock override slot (remove the cap near the shifter and insert a tool to mechanically release the lock). The ignition will not provide any electrical assistance. Note that the steering column will remain locked unless you can turn the key to ACC—most GM vehicles allow key rotation to ACC without battery power. If pushing or rolling the vehicle, ensure the key is in ACC to unlock steering.