🚨 2017 Cadillac ATS-V: Emergency Neutral
The 2017 ATS-V uses a traditional console-mounted automatic shifter with electronic shift lock controlled by the brake pedal interlock system.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — cross-check against your owner’s manual when possible.
⚠️ 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 vehicle is on a flat surface and set the parking brake firmly.
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position if battery has any charge remaining.
- Locate the shift lock override slot - it is a small rectangular opening with a plastic cap located on the left side of the shifter base, forward of the shift knob.
- Use a flat-head screwdriver or the metal key blade to remove the cap by gently prying it off.
- Insert the screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down firmly while simultaneously pulling the shifter rearward out of Park.
- Shift to Neutral, then release the override.
- If successful, the vehicle can now be rolled or steered; keep the override tool engaged if you need to shift back to Park.
Shift-lock override location
Left side of the shifter base, forward of the shifter knob, covered by a small rectangular plastic cap
With zero electrical power
With zero electrical power, the shift lock override will still function mechanically. You will not be able to turn the steering wheel (steering lock engages), so the vehicle must be loaded straight onto a flatbed or dragged with wheels straight. The override requires only mechanical access, no battery power needed.