🚨 2007 Cadillac DTS: Emergency Neutral
The 2007 Cadillac DTS uses a traditional column-mounted shifter lever with electronic shift lock controlled by the brake-light switch.
✓ 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 parking brake is firmly set and the vehicle is on level ground or properly chocked.
- Turn the ignition to the ACC or ON position if the battery has any charge remaining.
- Locate the shift lock override slot, which is a small covered opening on the upper left side of the steering column shroud near the shifter base.
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or similar tool to pry off the small plastic cap covering the override slot.
- Insert the screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down firmly while simultaneously moving the shifter toward Drive and then to Neutral.
- If moving the vehicle onto a flatbed, keep the override depressed and shift through to Neutral; release the tool once in Neutral.
- If the ignition cannot be turned on, the steering wheel will remain locked; the vehicle will need to be dollied or dragged with front wheels off the ground.
Shift-lock override location
Small covered slot on the upper left side of the steering column shroud, just above and to the left of the shifter lever base.
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead battery, the ignition cannot be turned to ACC/ON and the steering lock will remain engaged. The shift lock override will still function mechanically to release the shifter, but the vehicle cannot be steered. Flatbed towing or using wheel dollies on the front wheels is required.