🚨 1992 BMW 740iL E32: Emergency Neutral
The E32 740iL uses a traditional floor-mounted automatic console shifter with a mechanical shift lock that engages when the key is in any position other than RUN or when the brake pedal is not depressed.
✓ 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 set and the vehicle is on level ground or properly chocked
- Turn the ignition key to position I (ACC) or position II (ON) if battery has any charge remaining
- Locate the shift lock override slot: it is a small rectangular opening with a plastic cover, located on the left side of the shifter console near the base of the shift lever
- Use a small flat-blade screwdriver or the metal key blade to pry off the small plastic cover over the override slot
- Insert the screwdriver or key fully into the override slot and push down firmly while simultaneously pulling the shifter button and moving the shifter rearward to Neutral
- If the vehicle needs to be moved farther, you can shift to Neutral and push/roll it, or continue to Drive if the engine will start
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot with plastic cover on the left side of the shifter console near the shifter base
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the shift lock override still functions mechanically. You do NOT need electrical power to use the override - simply use the physical override slot. The key does not need to be turned if battery is completely dead; the mechanical override bypasses all electrical interlocks.