🚨 2017 Buick Verano: Emergency Neutral
The 2017 Buick Verano uses a conventional floor-mounted console shifter with electronic shift lock controlled by the brake-light switch.
✓ 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 ACC or ON position if battery has any charge (this may allow normal brake-pedal shifting)
- If no power or shift lock won't release with brake pedal, locate the shift lock override slot
- The override access is typically a small rectangular cap or slot near the shifter base on the console—look directly in front of or to the right side of the shifter mechanism
- Use a flathead screwdriver or the key blade to pry off the cap if present
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver, key, or similar tool into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, move the shifter from Park to Neutral
- Release the override tool once in Neutral; the vehicle can now roll
Shift-lock override location
Small cap or slot on the console near the shifter base, typically to the right or in front of the shifter mechanism—exact location may vary slightly by trim
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the electronic shift lock remains engaged. You must use the mechanical shift lock override—no electrical method will work. The ignition will not turn on, so rely solely on the override slot to release the shifter.