🚨 2003 Bentley Arnage: Emergency Neutral
The 2003 Arnage uses a traditional floor-mounted console shifter with electronic shift interlock controlled by the brake-light switch.
✓ 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 or properly chocked
- Turn the ignition key to the ON position (or ACC if battery has some charge remaining)
- Locate the shift lock override slot—it is a small covered opening near the base of the shifter lever on the console
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or similar tool to remove the cover cap over the override slot
- Insert the screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down firmly while simultaneously pulling the shifter toward you to move out of Park
- Shift to Neutral; the override must remain depressed during the shift movement
- If the vehicle will be towed, leave the shifter in Neutral and ensure the key remains in the ON or ACC position to unlock the steering column
Shift-lock override location
Small covered slot near the base of the shifter on the center console, typically on the left or front side of the shifter base
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead battery, the shift lock override will still function mechanically. However, you will need to manually unlock the driver's door with the key, and the steering column will remain locked. You may need to provide external 12V power (jump pack or jumper cables) to unlock the steering column before the vehicle can roll freely or be loaded onto a flatbed.