🚨 2020 Cadillac CT5: Emergency Neutral
The 2020 CT5 uses a traditional console-mounted automatic transmission shifter with electronic 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 to ON/RUN position if battery power is available (this may allow normal brake-pedal shifting)
- Locate the shift lock override: there is a small rectangular slot with a removable cover near the shifter base on the left (driver's) side
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or key to carefully pry off the cover cap
- Insert the screwdriver or a similar tool into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override depressed, move the shifter from Park to Neutral
- Remove the tool and replace the cover
- The vehicle can now be moved or loaded onto a flatbed with the transmission in Neutral
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot with removable cover located near the shifter base on the left (driver's) side
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery and no electrical power, the mechanical shift lock override will still function. Follow the override procedure without turning on the ignition. Use a flashlight if needed to locate the override slot.