🚨 2007-2017 Chevrolet Traverse: Emergency Neutral
The 2009-2017 Traverse uses a traditional console-mounted automatic transmission shifter with electronic shift interlock (note: 2007-2008 were pre-production, production started 2009).
🧰 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
- Set the parking brake firmly
- If possible, attempt to provide auxiliary 12V power to the vehicle battery to restore shift interlock function
- Locate the shift lock override access - look for a small rectangular cover or slot near the base of the shifter on the console
- Remove the cover cap using a small flathead screwdriver or trim tool
- Insert a key, screwdriver, or similar tool into the override slot
- Press the tool down firmly while simultaneously pressing the shifter button and pulling the shifter toward Neutral
- Keep downward pressure on the override tool until the shifter is fully in Neutral
- The vehicle can now be moved; ensure parking brake is released when ready to roll
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular plastic cover near the front or right side of the shifter base on the center console
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the electronic shift interlock will not release normally. Use the mechanical override slot procedure. The override bypasses the electronic solenoid mechanically. If you cannot access or operate the override, the vehicle must be loaded onto a flatbed with dollies or skates under the front wheels.