🚨 2017 Cadillac CTS: Emergency Neutral
The 2017 CTS uses an electronic console-mounted shifter with shift-by-wire technology and electronic park 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 vehicle is on a flat surface and wheels are chocked
- Locate the shift lock override slot - it is a small rectangular opening with a plastic cap on the left side of the shifter base, near the driver's side
- Remove the plastic cap by prying it gently with a flat screwdriver or your fingernail
- Insert a flat-blade screwdriver or similar tool into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal (if any power is available) and move the shifter to Neutral
- If the shifter still does not move, keep the override depressed and attempt to rock the shifter gently while applying pressure toward Neutral
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot with plastic cap on the left side of the shifter base, near the driver's side
With zero electrical power
With zero power, the electronic shifter may not release even with the override. If the override does not work, the transmission must be placed in neutral from underneath the vehicle - this requires accessing the manual shift lever on the transmission itself, which is a professional-level procedure. A flatbed tow is strongly recommended.