🚨 1997 Subaru SVX: Emergency Neutral
The 1997 SVX uses a traditional console-mounted automatic transmission shifter with a button on the front of the handle and a mechanical shift lock.
🧰 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 key to ACC or ON position if battery has any charge
- Locate the shift lock override slot - it's a small covered opening near the base of the shifter console, typically on the right side or front of the shifter surround
- Use a flathead screwdriver or the metal key blade to pry off the small plastic cover over the override slot
- Insert the screwdriver or key straight down into the override slot while simultaneously pressing the shifter button
- While holding the override down, move the shifter from Park to Neutral
- If the steering wheel is locked, you may need to turn the key while gently rotating the steering wheel to unlock it before moving the vehicle
Shift-lock override location
Small covered slot in the shifter console surround, typically to the right or front of the shifter base - look for a small rectangular cap approximately 0.5 inches wide
With zero electrical power
With zero electrical power, the mechanical shift lock override will still function. You will not be able to use the ignition key to unlock the steering column electrically, so you may need to manually rock the steering wheel while turning the key to release the mechanical steering lock. The override mechanism is purely mechanical and does not require battery power.