🚨 1997 GMC Sierra 1500: Emergency Neutral
The 1997 Sierra 1500 uses a column-mounted shifter with a mechanical shift lock release accessed via a small slot near the shifter mechanism.
✓ 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 battery has any charge remaining
- Locate the shift lock override slot on the steering column - it is a small rectangular opening on the upper right side of the shifter housing, near where the lever pivots
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver or similar tool into the override slot (approximately 1/4 inch deep)
- Press firmly inward on the tool while simultaneously pulling the shifter toward you to move it out of Park
- If the ignition cannot be turned and the steering wheel is locked, you may need to wiggle the steering wheel while turning the key to unlock it first
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be pushed or towed
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot on the upper right side of the column shifter housing, near the lever pivot point
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the shift lock may still be mechanically engaged. Use the override slot with a screwdriver to manually release the lock mechanism. The steering wheel lock will also engage when power is lost - you may need to apply rocking pressure to the steering wheel to relieve tension on the lock pin before the key will turn. If the key cannot turn at all, the override release must be used without turning the key.