🚨 2006 Aston Martin Vantage: Emergency Neutral
The 2006 Vantage uses a center console-mounted Sportshift automated manual transmission lever or conventional automatic shifter.
🧰 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 the vehicle is on level ground and apply the parking brake manually if possible
- Turn the ignition key to the ON position (do not attempt to start)
- If the battery is dead, connect a jump starter or donor vehicle to provide temporary 12V power
- Once power is available, press and hold the brake pedal firmly
- Move the shift lever from Park to Neutral (if automatic) or to Neutral position (if Sportshift)
- If the shift lever will not move due to shift interlock failure, locate the shift lock override slot near the shifter base
- Look for a small rectangular or circular cover on the console near the shift lever
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or the mechanical key blade to pry off the cover
- Insert the screwdriver into the override slot and press down while simultaneously moving the shifter to Neutral
Shift-lock override location
Small cover located near the base of the center console shifter, typically on the left or forward side of the shift lever assembly
With zero electrical power
With zero electrical power, the Sportshift automated manual transmission or automatic transmission shift interlock cannot be released electronically. You must provide at least temporary 12V power via jump pack or donor vehicle to energize the shift solenoid. If power cannot be restored, the vehicle must be flatbed transported with the driven rear wheels off the ground.