🚨 2017 Chevrolet Colorado: Emergency Neutral
The 2017 Colorado uses a floor-mounted console shifter with an electronic shift-lock solenoid and mechanical override.
🧰 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
- Set the parking brake firmly and chock the wheels.
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position if battery has any charge remaining.
- Press and hold the brake pedal firmly.
- Locate the shift-lock override access: look for a small rectangular cap or cover on the left side of the shifter base, near where the lever emerges from the console.
- Use a flat-blade screwdriver or trim removal tool to carefully pry off the cover cap.
- Insert a screwdriver, key, or similar tool into the exposed override slot and push down firmly.
- While holding the override down, press the shifter button on the side of the lever and move the shifter to Neutral.
- The shifter should release and move freely; keep the brake applied until the vehicle is secured.
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular cover cap on the left side of the shifter base, near where the lever emerges from the center console.
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the mechanical shift-lock override will still function. Insert the tool into the override slot and apply pressure while manipulating the shifter. The steering column lock will engage, so ensure wheels are chocked and the vehicle is on level ground. Note that the electronic parking brake (if equipped) may remain engaged; you may need to manually release it or load the vehicle onto a flatbed with the parking brake set.