🚨 2009 Cadillac CTS-V: Emergency Neutral
The 2009 CTS-V (second generation) uses a center console-mounted electronic shifter lever with P-R-N-D-M positions and a more refined electronic shift-lock system.
✓ 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
- Ensure the vehicle is secure and parking brake is applied
- If battery has any charge, insert the key fob and press the brake pedal
- Press the engine start button to power the vehicle to at least accessory mode
- With brake depressed, move the shifter from Park to Neutral
- If the shifter is locked due to dead battery or brake switch failure, locate the shift lock override
- The override access is under a small rectangular cover on the console trim to the left of the shifter base
- Use a flathead screwdriver or the key blade to remove the override cover
- Insert the screwdriver into the exposed override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override depressed, move the shift lever from Park to Neutral
- The vehicle can now be moved or loaded
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular plastic cover located on the left side of the shifter base console trim, just below or adjacent to the shifter boot
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the mechanical shift lock override will still function. Access the override slot, press down, and manually move the shifter to Neutral. No power is needed for the mechanical override.