🚨 2017 Ferrari California: Emergency Neutral
The 2017 Ferrari California uses a traditional gated console-mounted automatic shifter lever with Park, Reverse, Neutral, and Drive positions.
✓ 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 parking brake is firmly engaged and the vehicle is on level ground.
- Turn the ignition key to ACC or ON position (if battery has any charge remaining).
- Press and hold the brake pedal firmly.
- Locate the shift-lock override slot: it is a small rubber-covered access hole at the base of the shifter console, typically on the right side near the shifter boot.
- Remove the rubber cap using a flat-blade screwdriver or similar tool.
- Insert a small screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down while simultaneously pulling the shifter back from Park through Reverse to Neutral.
- If you cannot move the shifter with override depressed, verify the ignition is at least in ACC position; Ferrari shift interlocks typically require some ignition position even with the override.
- Once in Neutral, you may release the override and remove the tool.
- Vehicle can now roll; maintain brake pressure or use wheel chocks before releasing brake.
Shift-lock override location
Small rubber-capped slot at the base of the shifter console, typically on the right side of the shifter boot; exact position may vary slightly by production year.
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead battery, the ignition will not turn to ACC, and the shift interlock may remain fully locked even with the override pressed. In this case, jump-start the 12V battery using the underhood terminals (positive terminal under red cover near firewall, negative on chassis ground point) to provide minimal power, then attempt the override procedure. If jump-starting is not possible, the vehicle must be lifted or dollied onto a flatbed with wheels free.