🚨 2008 BMW M5 E60: Emergency Neutral
The E60 M5 uses a traditional console-mounted SMG III or automatic transmission lever with 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
- Apply the parking brake firmly and chock the wheels
- Turn the ignition to position II (or press start button twice without brake pedal) to power the shifter module
- Locate the shift lock override slot on the left side of the shifter base, near the console trim
- Remove the small rectangular plastic cap covering the override slot using a flathead screwdriver or trim tool
- Insert a flathead screwdriver or key into the override slot and push down firmly
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal and move the shifter to neutral
- If the shifter will not move, you may need to apply significant force while holding the override - the mechanism can be stiff
Shift-lock override location
Left side of shifter base near console trim, under small rectangular plastic cap
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the shift lock override will still function mechanically. Access the override slot as described, insert a tool, and apply firm downward pressure while simultaneously pulling the shifter toward neutral. The SMG transmission may require jumpstarting the battery or connecting a power source to fully disengage the parking lock mechanism. If override alone doesn't work, the transmission may need to be manually released from underneath the vehicle - flatbed towing is recommended.