GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

The transmission has an electric park lock called a shift lock manual release. The key must be in the ON/RUN position, and the brake pedal pressed so the transmission gear selector can be moved from the P (Park) position. If the battery has lost power, the selector cannot be moved to neutral for towing unless the shift lock manual release is disengaged manually.


Object Number: 2017048  Size: G2

To access the shift lock manual release:

  1. Apply the park brake.
  2. Remove the console trim panel (A) from the console.
  3. 2.1.  Gently lift the back corners of the trim panel directly in front of the cupholders (C) until the two clips are released from the console.
    2.2. Gently lift the console trim panel from the rear until the four clips around the shift lever are released.
  4. Raise the panel (A) no more than 2-3 inches (50-75 mm) to avoid disconnecting the wiring from the switches (B).
  5. With the console trim panel raised, remove the retainer (E) and the shift lock manual release cover plate (D).
  6. Push and hold the manual release lever (F) toward the passenger side of the vehicle.
  7. Press the select button and move the transmission gear selector to the N (Neutral) position (G).
  8. Release the lever (F).
  9. After the vehicle has been moved, align the shift lock manual release cover plate (D) and install the retainer (E) so the automatic transmission can operate properly.
  10. Place the trim panel (A) and the wires in their original position and gently press down around the outside until it clicks in place.
  11. Check the operation of the switches (B) before operating the vehicle.

The transmission selector locks if it is moved back to the P (Park) position.