🚨 1995 BMW 840Ci E31: Emergency Neutral
The E31 8-series uses a traditional console-mounted automatic shifter with electronic shift interlock controlled by the brake-light switch and a mechanical shift-lock override.
✓ 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 to position II (ON) if battery power is available; this may allow normal shifting with brake pedal depressed.
- If the shifter remains locked, locate the shift-lock override access: look for a small rectangular plastic cap or cover on the console immediately adjacent to the shifter base, typically on the left side or front of the shifter surround.
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or trim tool to carefully pry off the override cap.
- Insert the key, a screwdriver, or a similar narrow tool into the override slot and press down firmly while simultaneously pulling the shifter button and moving the shifter out of Park into Neutral.
- If moving the vehicle onto a flatbed, leave the shifter in Neutral and ensure the parking brake is released only when the vehicle is secured on the truck.
Shift-lock override location
Small cap adjacent to the shifter base on the center console, typically on the left side or front edge of the shifter surround; exact position may vary slightly by production date.
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead battery, the electronic shift interlock will be inactive and the shifter should move freely with the brake pedal depressed. If it does not, use the mechanical shift-lock override as described. The steering lock will remain engaged, so steering will be locked unless manually released (steering lock is under the column and requires removal of lower trim and manual manipulation—flatbed towing strongly recommended).