🚨 2023 BMW M5: Emergency Neutral
The F90 M5 uses a traditional center console shifter with electronic gear selector and shift-lock.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — cross-check against your owner’s manual when possible.
⚠️ 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 parking brake is engaged
- Turn the ignition to accessory mode (press start button without brake pedal) if 12V power is available
- Locate the shift lock override slot - it is a small covered slot on the left side of the shifter base, toward the driver
- Use a flathead screwdriver or the metal key blade to pry off the small rectangular cover cap
- Insert the screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, move the shifter from Park to Neutral
- If 12V power is available, the shifter will move normally; if no power, you may need to apply more force while holding the override
- Release the override and verify the transmission is in Neutral before attempting to move the vehicle
Shift-lock override location
Small covered rectangular slot on the left side of the shifter base, toward the driver's side
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the shift lock override still functions mechanically. Access the override slot and apply firm downward pressure while moving the shifter. The steering will be locked, so the vehicle can only be pushed or winched straight. If the electronic parking brake was engaged when power was lost, it will remain locked - the vehicle cannot be moved without 12V power or manually releasing the rear brake calipers.