🚨 2002 Oldsmobile Aurora: Emergency Neutral
The 2002 Aurora uses a traditional column-mounted PRNDL shifter with electronic shift interlock.
✓ 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
- Apply parking brake firmly and ensure vehicle is on level ground
- Turn ignition to ACC or ON position if battery has any charge remaining
- Locate the shift lock override slot - it is a small rectangular opening with a plastic cover cap located on the lower left side of the steering column shroud, below and to the left of the shifter lever
- Use a flathead screwdriver or the key itself to pry off the small plastic cover cap
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver, pen, or similar tool into the exposed override slot and push down firmly
- While holding the override down, press the shifter button and move the shifter to Neutral
- If battery is completely dead and ignition cannot be turned, you may need to manually apply 12V power to the shift interlock solenoid or jump-start the vehicle first
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot with plastic cap on lower left side of steering column shroud, below the shifter lever assembly
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the steering column lock will also engage. You may need to jump the battery or connect a booster pack to get even ACC power, which will allow the shift lock override to function. The override mechanism requires slight electrical power to fully disengage in some cases, though the mechanical override should work.