🚨 2009 BMW 335i: Emergency Neutral
The E90 335i uses an electronic steptronic shifter, a console-mounted lever that moves forward/back through gates with electronic shift-by-wire control.
✓ 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 to position II (accessory mode) if you have any 12V power available
- Locate the shift lock override slot: it is covered by a small rectangular cap directly to the left of the shifter base on the center console
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or key to pry off the override cap
- Insert the screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal (if power available) and move the shifter to the Neutral position
- If successful, the shifter will move to N and remain there; release the override tool
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular cap on the left side of the shifter base on the center console; pry off to access the manual override slot
With zero electrical power
With no 12V power, the electronic shifter is locked and the override will NOT work on its own. You must provide at least ignition-on power (position II) via jump-starting the 12V battery or using a portable jump pack. Without any power, the transmission remains locked in Park and the vehicle must be flatbed towed.