🚨 2002 Daihatsu Copen: Emergency Neutral
The 2002 Daihatsu Copen (L880K generation) uses a compact console-mounted automatic shifter with electronic shift lock.
✓ Expert-verified by Chris Hackleman — 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 apply the parking brake firmly.
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position if battery has any charge remaining.
- Locate the shift lock override slot near the shifter base - on the Copen it is typically found on the right side of the shifter housing.
- Remove the small plastic cover cap over the override slot (it may be labeled or unmarked).
- Insert a flathead screwdriver, key, or similar tool into the override slot and press down firmly.
- While holding the override mechanism down, press the brake pedal if possible and move the shifter to N.
- If brake pedal cannot be pressed, maintain pressure on the override and carefully move the shifter to N.
- Replace the override cover cap after shifting.
Shift-lock override location
Small covered slot on the right side of the shifter base housing, typically requiring removal of a small plastic cap
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery: the mechanical shift lock override still works. Follow the override procedure without turning the key. The steering column will remain locked, so the vehicle cannot be towed with wheels down - it must be loaded onto a flatbed. The Copen's compact size makes flatbed loading straightforward.