🚨 1996 Aston Martin DB7: Emergency Neutral
The 1996 DB7 automatic uses a traditional console-mounted shift lever with electronic shift-lock.
✓ 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 engaged and the vehicle is on level ground
- Turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON position if battery power is available
- Locate the shift-lock override slot, typically a small covered access point near the base of the shifter on the console
- Remove the small cover cap (may require gentle prying with a flat tool)
- Insert a small flat-blade screwdriver or the emergency key into the override slot
- Press down on the override mechanism while simultaneously pressing the brake pedal (if power available) and moving the shifter to Neutral
- If no power is available, press and hold the override while moving the shifter directly to Neutral
Shift-lock override location
Small covered slot near the base of the shifter console, typically on the right or front side of the shifter surround
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead battery, the shift-lock override will still function mechanically. Use the physical key in the door lock to access the interior. The override slot can be activated without any electrical power - simply press the override while moving the shifter to Neutral. The ignition does not need to be in any particular position.