🚨 1995 BMW 850CSi E31: Emergency Neutral
The E31 uses a traditional floor-mounted console shifter with electronic shift lock tied to the brake pedal and ignition.
✓ 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
- Turn the ignition key to position I or II (accessories on) if battery has any charge remaining
- Firmly press and hold the brake pedal
- Locate the small rectangular shift lock override slot on the left side of the shifter base, just forward of the selector lever
- Insert a flat-blade screwdriver or similar tool into the override slot approximately 1/2 inch deep
- While pressing the tool down into the override slot, move the shifter from Park to Neutral
- Remove the tool and verify the shifter is in Neutral position
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot on the left side of the shifter base, forward of the selector lever, accessible without removing any trim panels
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the shift lock override slot still functions mechanically. Insert tool into override slot and apply pressure while shifting - no electrical power is needed for the mechanical override. You may need to use slightly more force. Ensure parking brake is set before attempting.