🚨 1993 Honda Del Sol: Emergency Neutral
The 1993 Del Sol with automatic transmission uses a traditional floor-mounted console shift lever with a mechanical shift lock interlock.
🧰 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 vehicle is on a level surface and set the parking brake firmly
- Turn the ignition key to ON (II) position
- Locate the shift lock override button: it is a small round or rectangular button positioned on the console to the right of or behind the shift lever, often covered by a small cap or visible near the shifter boot
- If covered, use a flathead screwdriver or your key to carefully pry off the small cap
- Press and hold the shift lock override button down firmly
- While holding the button, press the brake pedal (if functional) and move the shift lever through Park to Neutral
- If the brake pedal has no pressure, continue holding the override button and move the shifter directly to Neutral
- Release the override button once in Neutral
Shift-lock override location
Small button or slot located on the console to the right of or just behind the shift lever base, may be covered by a small removable cap
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery and no electrical power, turn the key mechanically to ON position if possible. The 1993 Del Sol's shift lock is primarily mechanical; the override button should release the shifter even without battery power as long as the key is in the ON position. If the steering lock prevents key turning, you may need to rock the steering wheel while turning the key. In worst case, a brief jump-start will allow key operation.