🚨 2000 Isuzu Hombre: Emergency Neutral
The 2000 Isuzu Hombre uses a column-mounted shifter with a traditional shift-lock mechanism identical to its GM S-10/Sonoma platform mates.
✓ 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
- Ensure the parking brake is firmly set and wheels are chocked.
- 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 in the plastic shroud directly below and to the right of the shifter lever on the column.
- Remove the small plastic cover cap from the override slot if present (it may be a press-fit plug).
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver, trim tool, or the key itself into the slot and press firmly downward.
- While holding the override down, press the shifter button and move the shifter to Neutral.
- If the vehicle needs to roll freely, keep it in Neutral; if loading onto a flatbed with the front wheels up, the shifter position is less critical.
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot in the column shroud directly below and to the right of the shifter lever; typically covered with a small plastic cap
With zero electrical power
With zero electrical power, the shift-lock override still works mechanically. You will not need electrical power to defeat the shift interlock - the override slot physically releases the locking mechanism. Ensure the steering wheel is unlocked (turn key to ACC) so the vehicle can be steered if rolling.