🚨 1997 Isuzu Hombre: Emergency Neutral
The 1997 Isuzu Hombre uses a column-mounted shifter (standard) or floor console shifter (optional on some trims), both with electronic shift-lock interlock; this is a rebadged Chevrolet S-10.
✓ 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.
- FOR COLUMN SHIFTER: Locate the shift-lock override button - it is a small white or tan button located on the lower right side of the steering column shroud, just below and to the right of the shifter lever.
- FOR COLUMN SHIFTER: Use a small screwdriver or pen to press and hold the override button while moving the column shifter down toward Drive/Neutral position.
- FOR CONSOLE SHIFTER: Locate the shift-lock override slot near the base of the shifter - remove the small cap cover and insert a screwdriver into the slot.
- FOR CONSOLE SHIFTER: Press down on the override mechanism while moving the shifter to Neutral.
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be moved or loaded.
Shift-lock override location
Column shifter: small white or tan button on lower right side of steering column shroud, just below the shifter lever. Console shifter (if equipped): cap-covered slot near shifter base on right side.
With zero electrical power
With zero electrical power, the shift-lock override is mechanical and will still function. For column shifters, press the override button without needing ignition power. For console shifters, use the mechanical override slot. The mechanical override bypasses all electrical interlocks, so no battery power is required.