🚨 2018 Citroën C5 Aircross: Emergency Neutral
The 2018 C5 Aircross uses a conventional electronic console-mounted automatic shifter with P-R-N-D positions and an electronic parking brake.
✓ 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 a flat surface and chock the wheels securely
- Apply the manual parking brake release: with ignition off, pull and hold the electronic parking brake switch UP for several seconds until you hear a mechanical release sound (this is the emergency release function)
- Locate the shift lock override access—look for a small removable cap or cover on the left side of the shifter base near the P position
- Use a flat-blade screwdriver or key to carefully pry off the override access cover
- Insert a small screwdriver or similar tool into the override slot and press down firmly while pulling the shifter from P to N
- If the shifter will not move and battery is completely dead, you may need to provide temporary 12V power via jump-start or portable battery to energize the shift lock solenoid
- Once in N, vehicle can be pushed or winched slowly onto flatbed
Shift-lock override location
Small access cover on the left side of the shifter base console, near the P position gate—exact position may vary slightly by trim but typically adjacent to the shifter button
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the electronic shift lock may require a jump-start or portable power supply to briefly energize the system enough to release the shifter using the override. The electronic parking brake may also need momentary power to release. If EPB cannot be released electrically, rear wheels must be lifted for towing.