🚨 2001 BMW M Roadster E36/7: Emergency Neutral
The 2001 M Roadster E36/7 uses a traditional console-mounted automatic shifter with a mechanical shift lock interlock.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — details like the exact override location may vary by trim; verify visually before prying anything.
⚠️ 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
- Apply parking brake and chock wheels
- Turn ignition to ACC or ON position if battery has any charge
- Locate the shift lock override - a small rectangular or circular cover on the console near the shifter base
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or trim tool to carefully pry off the override cover
- Insert the screwdriver into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal (if power available) and move shifter to N
- If no brake function, continue holding override and shift directly to N
Shift-lock override location
Small cover on the console near the shifter base, typically to the left or in front of the shifter assembly
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the shift lock override still functions mechanically. Insert tool into override slot and press down while moving shifter. The ignition does not need to be in any position for the mechanical override to work. You may need to rock the vehicle slightly if the parking pawl is under load.