🚨 2022 Chevrolet Traverse: Emergency Neutral
The 2022 Traverse uses a traditional console-mounted shift lever 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
- Ensure the vehicle is on a level surface and set the parking brake firmly.
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position if battery power is available.
- Locate the shift lock override slot - it is a small rectangular opening on the left side of the shifter base, typically covered by a removable plastic cap.
- Use a flat-blade screwdriver or similar tool to pry off the plastic cap covering the override slot.
- Insert a screwdriver, key, or similar tool straight down into the override slot while simultaneously pulling the shift lever toward you.
- Move the shifter to Neutral while keeping the override depressed.
- If successful, release the override tool and verify the shifter remains in Neutral.
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot on the left side of the shifter base, covered by a removable plastic cap
With zero electrical power
With completely dead 12V battery, the shift lock override is mechanical and will still function. You may need to manually unlock the steering column if it's locked - this can be done by turning the key while applying slight steering wheel rotation. If the electronic parking brake is engaged and won't release without power, you may need to jump the battery or use the electronic parking brake manual release procedure before moving the vehicle.