🚨 1998 GMC Jimmy: Emergency Neutral
The 1998 GMC Jimmy uses a traditional floor-mounted console shifter with a push-button shift lock release.
✓ 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 key to the ACC or ON position if the battery has any charge remaining.
- Locate the shift lock override slot: it is a small rectangular opening covered by a plastic cap, positioned directly to the LEFT of the shifter lever base on the console.
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or the key blade to pry off the plastic cap covering the override slot.
- Insert the screwdriver or a similar tool into the override slot and press down firmly.
- While holding the override down, press the shifter button and move the shifter to Neutral.
- If the vehicle must be towed, keep it in Neutral with the transfer case in 2WD (if equipped); for flatbed towing with 4WD engaged, all four wheels must be off the ground.
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot with plastic cap directly to the left of the shifter lever base on the console
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the shift lock override will still function mechanically. You do NOT need electrical power to use the override slot—simply remove the cap, insert tool, press down, and shift to Neutral. The ignition key does not need to turn.