🚨 2023 BMW M2: Emergency Neutral
The 2023 M2 (G87 generation) uses a console-mounted electronic shifter with shift-by-wire technology and electronic shift lock.
🧰 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
- Ensure the vehicle is on a level surface and apply the parking brake firmly.
- Turn the ignition to the ON position if battery power is available.
- Locate the shift lock override - there is a small covered slot near the base of the shifter on the right side of the shifter console.
- Remove the small plastic cap or cover over the override slot using a flathead screwdriver or by prying gently.
- Insert a flathead screwdriver, key, or similar thin tool into the override slot.
- Press down firmly on the override mechanism while simultaneously pressing the brake pedal (if power available).
- Move the shifter to the Neutral position while holding the override down.
- If no power is available, the override may still work mechanically - press and hold while attempting to shift to Neutral.
Shift-lock override location
Small covered slot on the right side of the shifter base console, typically requires removal of a plastic cap.
With zero electrical power
The G87 M2 uses shift-by-wire technology. With zero power, the mechanical override may have limited function. You may need to provide temporary 12V power (jump box to battery terminals) to at least get the transmission control module powered enough to release the shifter. If the override works mechanically with no power, use it as described; otherwise, a brief power supply is necessary.