🚨 2019 BMW M340i: Emergency Neutral
The 2019 M340i uses a console-mounted electronic shifter lever with positions P-R-N-D and manual mode functionality.
✓ 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 vehicle is on level ground and the parking brake is firmly engaged
- If battery power is available, turn ignition to ON position (press start button without brake pedal)
- Locate the shift lock override slot: it is a small covered opening on the left side of the shifter base console, toward the driver's side
- Use the metal key blade or a small flathead screwdriver to carefully pry off the plastic cover over the override slot
- Insert the key blade or screwdriver into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding down the override, pull the shifter rearward from Park to Neutral
- If no battery power is available, you must provide at least minimal 12V power by jump-starting the battery (located in trunk or under hood depending on configuration) to energize the shift lock solenoid
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be pushed or towed with all wheels on the ground for short distances at low speed
Shift-lock override location
Small covered slot on the left side of the shifter base console near the driver
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the electronic shift lock solenoid cannot be mechanically bypassed on the G20 platform. You must jump-start the vehicle's 12V battery to provide minimal power. The battery is typically in the trunk (under the trunk floor) or under the hood depending on engine variant. Connect jumper cables to the positive terminal and a chassis ground, then attempt the override procedure. If no jump-start is possible, the vehicle requires flatbed towing.