🚨 2013 Chevrolet Tahoe: Emergency Neutral
The 2013 Tahoe uses a traditional console-mounted PRNDL lever shifter with electronic shift lock.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — cross-check against your owner’s manual when possible.
⚠️ 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
- Apply the parking brake firmly and chock the wheels
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position if battery has any charge remaining
- Locate the shift lock override slot - it is a small rectangular opening with a plastic cover, located on the left side of the shifter base near the console sidewall
- Use a flat-head screwdriver or key to pry off the small plastic cover over the override slot
- Insert a flat-head screwdriver, key, or similar tool into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal (if you have any electrical power) and move the shifter to Neutral
- If the shifter will not move, continue holding the override down and apply more force to the shifter - you may need to rock the steering wheel slightly to relieve pressure on the parking pawl
- Once in Neutral, remove the tool and the vehicle can be rolled or towed
Shift-lock override location
Left side of the shifter base near the console sidewall, under a small rectangular plastic cover
With zero electrical power
With zero power, the override slot is mechanical and will still function. You will NOT be able to turn the ignition to ACC, so skip that step. Simply remove the cover, press the override, and shift to Neutral with firm pressure. The steering wheel will remain locked, so the vehicle must be towed with the front wheels raised or on a flatbed.