🚨 2003 Saab 9-5: Emergency Neutral
The 2003 Saab 9-5 features a center console-mounted automatic transmission shifter with a mechanically-linked shift lock that requires brake pedal depression to release from Park.
✓ 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 to position II (ON) - this is essential for both shift lock release and steering lock release.
- Locate the shift lock override access - there is a small plastic cover or slot on the console near the shifter base, typically on the left side or front-left of the shifter.
- Remove or open the plastic cover to expose the override mechanism.
- Insert a small screwdriver, hex key, or similar tool into the override slot.
- Press down or push in the override mechanism while simultaneously pressing the shifter release button.
- Move the shifter from Park to Neutral while maintaining pressure on the override.
- Vehicle can now be moved or towed with ignition in ON position to keep steering unlocked.
Shift-lock override location
Near the left or front-left side of the shifter base on the console, behind a small plastic cover
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery: You must jump-start or connect external 12V power to get ignition to ON position. The Saab steering lock is electronic and will not release without power. Without power, the shift lock override may still function mechanically to release the shifter, but the steering will be locked, making the vehicle impossible to steer. Flatbed towing with locked steering is the only option without power.