🚨 2025 Ferrari 296 GTB: Emergency Neutral
The 296 GTB uses a steering-column-mounted push-button gear selector with buttons for R, Auto, and forward gears, plus a physical neutral button.
✓ 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 parking brake is engaged
- Attempt to power on the vehicle: press the brake pedal and push the engine start button to activate the electrical system (even if the engine won't start, this may restore 12V power from the hybrid battery)
- If electrical power is available, press and hold the 'N' (Neutral) button on the steering column selector until neutral is engaged
- If no electrical power is available at all, the electronic parking brake cannot be released and the transmission cannot be shifted - the vehicle must be placed in transport/tow mode
- To enable transport mode with no power: locate the 12V battery access (front luggage compartment, left side) and connect an external jump starter or battery to restore minimal electrical power
- With minimal power restored, turn ignition to ON position (do not start), press brake pedal, then press and hold the 'N' button
- Once in neutral, release the electronic parking brake using the switch on the center console
- If jump starting is not possible, the vehicle cannot be shifted and must be loaded onto a flatbed with wheels free - do NOT attempt to tow with drive wheels on the ground
With zero electrical power
The 296 GTB requires 12V power to shift gears and release the electronic parking brake. Without any power, you must either connect an external 12V source to the battery terminals in the front luggage compartment, or load the vehicle onto a flatbed with a wheel dolly or winch system.
⚡ EV / hybrid warning
This is a plug-in hybrid with an electric motor integrated into the transmission. NEVER tow with any wheels on the ground - even in neutral, the electric motor can generate voltage that may damage the hybrid system. Always use a flatbed with all four wheels off the ground. The high-voltage system remains energized even when the car appears off.