🚨 1990 Mitsubishi GTO: Emergency Neutral
The 1990 Mitsubishi GTO (3000GT/Stealth platform) uses a floor-mounted console shifter with a side button and electronic shift lock system.
🧰 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 applied and wheels are chocked.
- Turn the ignition to the ACC or ON position if battery power is available.
- Locate the shift lock override mechanism—look for a small removable cover or slot near the shifter base, typically on the left side of the shifter console or in front of the shifter handle.
- Remove the cover by prying it gently with a flathead screwdriver.
- Insert a flathead screwdriver or similar tool into the exposed override slot and press down firmly.
- While holding the override mechanism down, press the shifter button and move the shifter from Park to Neutral.
- Remove the tool and verify the vehicle is in Neutral before attempting to move it.
Shift-lock override location
Near the shifter base on the console, typically on the left side or in front of the shifter handle under a small removable cover—exact location requires visual inspection of the specific shifter console.
With zero electrical power
With zero electrical power, the ignition cannot be turned to ACC. The mechanical shift lock override should still function—use the override slot procedure. Apply firm pressure on both the override and the shifter button simultaneously as the mechanism may be stiff without power assist.