🚨 2013 Aston Martin Vantage: Emergency Neutral
The 2013 Vantage with automatic transmission (Sportshift II or Sportshift III) uses a console-mounted sequential-style lever with a mechanical shift-lock interlock.
🧰 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 parking brake is firmly engaged and the vehicle is on level ground.
- Turn the ignition to the ACC or ON position if battery power is available.
- Locate the shift-lock override slot: look for a small rectangular or circular cover near the base of the shifter console, typically on the left side or front face of the shifter surround.
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or the mechanical key blade to carefully pry off the override cover.
- Insert the key blade or screwdriver into the override slot and press down firmly while simultaneously moving the shifter from Park.
- If the shifter will not move, ensure you are pressing the brake pedal (if any power is available) and applying firm downward pressure in the override slot.
- Shift to Neutral and hold it there while the vehicle is being moved or towed.
Shift-lock override location
Small cover near the shifter base, typically left side or front face of the center console shifter surround.
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead battery, the shift-lock override is fully mechanical. The ignition does not need to be in any particular position. Use the mechanical override slot with firm pressure to release the shifter. The steering wheel will remain locked, so the vehicle must be loaded onto a flatbed with the front wheels off the ground or towed with a wheel dolly.