🚨 2006 Pontiac GTO: Emergency Neutral
The 2006 Pontiac GTO uses a traditional console-mounted automatic shifter with a button on the side for gear selection.
✓ 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 the parking brake firmly and chock the wheels.
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position if battery has any charge remaining.
- Locate the shift lock release slot on the driver's side of the shifter base, near the 'P' position - it is covered by a small rectangular plastic cap.
- Use a flathead screwdriver or key to pry off the plastic cap covering the override slot.
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver, key, or similar tool into the exposed override slot and press down firmly.
- While holding the override down, press the shifter button and move the shifter to Neutral.
- If the vehicle has absolutely no power, you will need to jump start the 12V battery minimally to energize the shift interlock solenoid, then follow the override procedure.
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot on the driver's (left) side of the shifter base console near the 'P' position, covered by a plastic cap.
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the shift lock cannot be released mechanically alone on this model. A minimal jump start to the 12V battery (even just enough to power accessories) is required to energize the system, then use the override procedure. Alternatively, the vehicle must be dollied or dragged with all wheels off the ground.