🚨 1995 Pontiac Grand Am: Emergency Neutral
The 1995 Grand Am automatic uses a column-mounted shifter with electronic shift lock controlled by the brake-light switch.
🧰 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
- Apply the parking brake firmly and chock the wheels
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position if battery has any charge
- Locate the shift lock override - look for a small rectangular or circular slot with a cover near the base of the steering column shroud on the right side, or near the shifter lever itself
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or similar tool to pry off the cover if present
- Insert the screwdriver straight into the override slot and press down firmly while simultaneously pulling the shifter release button and moving to Neutral
- With zero power, the override still functions mechanically but may require more force
Shift-lock override location
Small override slot typically located near the base of the steering column shroud on the right side, or adjacent to the shifter lever - may have a small plastic cover
With zero electrical power
The shift lock override is mechanical and functions without battery power. You will need to insert a tool into the override slot and maintain pressure while operating the shifter. The steering column will remain locked without power.