🚨 2013 Chevrolet Suburban: Emergency Neutral
The 2013 Suburban (GMT900 platform) uses a column-mounted shifter on base models and a floor console-mounted shifter on higher trims; console shifters are more common.
✓ 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
- Set the parking brake firmly and chock the wheels
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position if battery has any charge remaining
- For console shifter: Locate the shift lock override - look for a small covered slot or removable trim piece on the left side or front-left of the shifter base
- For console shifter: Remove the plastic cover (may require prying with a flathead screwdriver) to access the override slot
- For console shifter: Insert a screwdriver or similar tool into the override slot and press down firmly while simultaneously pulling the shifter toward you and moving to Neutral
- For column shifter: Look for a small access hole or slot near the base of the steering column shroud on the left side, below the shifter stalk
- For column shifter: Insert a small screwdriver into the access hole while pulling the shifter toward you to release the lock and move to Neutral
Shift-lock override location
Console shifter: covered slot on left or front-left side of shifter base. Column shifter: small access hole near base of steering column shroud on the left side below the stalk.
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead battery, the mechanical shift lock override will still function on both console and column shifters. You cannot turn the ignition to ACC, but the override mechanism is purely mechanical. The steering wheel will remain locked, requiring flatbed transport - cannot be towed with wheels down. On console shifters, you may need better lighting to locate the override slot without interior lights.