🚨 2009 Saturn Aura: Emergency Neutral
The 2009 Saturn Aura uses a floor-mounted console shifter with electronic shift interlock 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
- Set the parking brake firmly and chock the wheels
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position if 12V power is available
- Locate the shift lock override slot—it is a small rectangular opening with a plastic cap located on the console to the left side of the shifter base near the driver's side
- Remove or pry up the plastic cap covering the override slot
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver or key into the slot and press down firmly while simultaneously pulling the shifter button/trigger and moving the shifter to Neutral
- The override mechanically releases the shift interlock pawl, allowing shifter movement without brake pedal input
- If the vehicle must remain in Neutral for towing, keep the ignition in ACC to unlock the steering wheel during loading
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot with plastic cap on the console to the left side of the shifter base, driver's side
With zero electrical power
With no 12V power, the shifter override still functions mechanically. The steering wheel will remain locked, so the vehicle must be loaded onto a flatbed with the front wheels on dollies or the entire vehicle lifted. Do not attempt to flat-tow with a locked steering wheel.