🚨 2018 Bentley Continental GT: Emergency Neutral
The 2018 Continental GT (third generation, introduced late 2017 for 2018 MY) features an electronic gear selector lever on the center console with electronic parking brake.
✓ 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 vehicle is on a flat surface; the electronic parking brake will be engaged if power is lost
- Connect a battery jump pack or charger to the vehicle to restore 12V power—the third-generation Continental GT's electronic systems require power for normal shifter operation
- Turn the ignition to ON
- Press and hold the brake pedal
- Press the shifter release button and move the selector to Neutral
- If power cannot be restored, locate the shift lock override access near the shifter base (check the owner's manual or look for a small cover on the console)
- Remove the cover and insert a small tool into the override slot while attempting to move the shifter to Neutral
- For flatbed loading, ensure the electronic parking brake is released (requires 12V power); with no power, the vehicle must be winched or dollied
Shift-lock override location
Small access cover near the base of the electronic shifter on the center console; exact location may be documented in the owner's manual under emergency procedures
With zero electrical power
The third-generation Continental GT relies heavily on electronics. With zero 12V power, the electronic parking brake remains engaged and the shifter interlock may not release even with the override. A temporary jump or battery connection is strongly recommended. If absolutely no power is available, the vehicle must be loaded with wheels lifted or dollied.