🚨 2026 Ferrari 12Cilindri: Emergency Neutral
The 2026 Ferrari 12Cilindri uses a console-mounted automatic transmission shifter with electronic shift-by-wire controls and multiple electronic interlocks.
🧰 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
- Ensure the vehicle is on level ground with parking brake engaged and wheels chocked
- Attempt to turn the ignition to ON position using the key or start button (requires some 12V power)
- Press and hold the brake pedal firmly
- Move the shifter to Neutral position
- If the shifter will not respond due to complete electrical failure, you must use the mechanical shift lock override
- Look for a small cover or cap near the base of the shifter console on the left or right side
- Pry off the cover using a trim tool or small flathead screwdriver to expose the override slot
- Insert the emergency key blade or a small screwdriver into the override slot
- Press down or pull up the override mechanism (direction varies by Ferrari model) while simultaneously moving the shifter to Neutral
- If successful, the vehicle can be carefully loaded onto a flatbed tow truck
Shift-lock override location
The shift lock override is typically located near the base of the center console shifter assembly, hidden under a small removable trim cap on the side of the shifter surround. The exact side and precise location may vary; consult the owner's manual or look for a small rectangular or circular cap adjacent to the shifter base.
With zero electrical power
With zero electrical power, modern Ferraris require the mechanical shift lock override. The electronic shifter will be completely non-functional. After locating and removing the override cover near the shifter base, use the emergency key or screwdriver to actuate the mechanical release while moving the shifter. If the override is not accessible or does not work, the vehicle MUST be loaded onto a flatbed with the wheels free-rolling using a skate dolly system. Do not attempt to flat-tow.