🚨 1993 Cadillac DeVille: Emergency Neutral
The 1993 DeVille uses a traditional column-mounted shifter with a mechanical shift lock that releases when the brake pedal is pressed.
🧰 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 set and the vehicle is on level ground or properly chocked
- Turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON position (if battery has any charge)
- Locate the shift lock override slot—it is a small rectangular opening in the plastic shroud on the lower right side of the steering column, just above where the column meets the dash
- Remove the small plastic cover plug from the override slot using a flathead screwdriver or by prying gently with your fingernail
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver, ignition key, or similar rigid tool into the override slot and press firmly inward
- While maintaining pressure on the override, press the brake pedal (if possible) and move the shifter from Park to Neutral
- If the shifter will not move, apply slightly more inward pressure on the override tool while attempting to shift
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be rolled or towed
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot in the steering column shroud, lower right side just above the dash, covered by a removable plastic plug
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead battery, the mechanical shift lock override will still function. You do not need any electrical power to use the override slot. However, without power you cannot turn the ignition key to unlock the steering wheel—if the steering is locked, you will need to apply jump power or a battery to turn the key to ACC before the vehicle can be safely rolled.