🚨 2002 Cadillac DTS: Emergency Neutral
The 2002 Cadillac DTS uses a traditional column-mounted shift lever with electronic shift lock.
✓ 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 on level ground and set the parking brake firmly.
- Turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON position if you have any battery power remaining.
- Locate the shift lock release access hole – it is a small rectangular slot located on the lower side of the steering column shroud, below and to the right of the shift lever.
- Remove the small plastic cover from the shift lock release slot if present.
- Insert a flat-blade screwdriver, key, or similar tool into the shift lock release slot and press firmly.
- While holding the release tool in place, press the shift lever button and move the shifter to Neutral.
- If the vehicle must be towed, keep the transmission in Neutral and ensure the key is in the ACC position to unlock the steering wheel.
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot on the lower right side of the steering column shroud, below the shift lever
With zero electrical power
With no electrical power, you cannot unlock the steering wheel or move the column shifter without the mechanical shift lock override. Use the shift lock release slot as described. If the steering wheel remains locked, the vehicle must be towed with the front wheels off the ground or on a flatbed.