🚨 1997 Honda Accord: Emergency Neutral
The 1997 Accord uses a traditional console-mounted automatic shifter with a shift lock button on the right side of the shifter handle.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — details like the exact override location may vary by trim; verify visually before prying anything.
⚠️ 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 parking brake is firmly engaged and the vehicle is on level ground
- Turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON position if battery has any charge remaining
- Locate the shift lock override slot - it is a small rectangular opening covered by a removable plastic cap on the console trim to the left of the shifter base
- Use a flathead screwdriver or similar tool to remove the cap
- Insert the key or a flathead screwdriver into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal (if possible) and move the shifter to Neutral
- If the shifter remains locked, ensure you are pressing the override fully down while simultaneously pulling the shifter button and moving the shifter
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot with removable plastic cap on console trim to the left of the shifter base
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the shift lock override still functions mechanically. You do not need electrical power to use the override slot. However, you will not be able to turn the ignition key to ACC without some battery power. Focus on using the override slot alone - press it down and move the shifter to Neutral.