🚨 1993 Saab 9000: Emergency Neutral
The 1993 Saab 9000 has a floor-mounted console shifter with electronic shift lock controlled by the brake pedal interlock.
🧰 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 parking brake is firmly engaged and wheels are chocked
- Turn ignition key to ON position (or ACC if battery has some charge)
- Locate the shift lock override slot—look for a small covered opening near the base of the shifter on the console, typically on the left or front side of the shifter housing
- Remove the cover cap or trim piece (may require gently prying with a flat tool)
- Insert a small flat-blade screwdriver or similar tool into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, press the shifter button and move shifter to Neutral
- If moving to a flatbed, you may continue to Park, but Neutral is sufficient for winching
Shift-lock override location
Small covered slot near the base of the shifter console housing, typically on the driver's left side or front edge of the shifter assembly
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the shift lock override must still be used. The mechanical override does not require electrical power—it physically releases the lock pawl. Turn the key to ON if possible to unlock the steering column, but the shift lock override works mechanically regardless of power state.