🚨 2018 Fiat 500 Abarth: Emergency Neutral
The 2018 Fiat 500 Abarth with automatic transmission uses a traditional console-mounted shift lever with electronic shift lock controlled by the brake pedal switch.
🧰 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 parking brake is firmly engaged and wheels are chocked
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position if battery has any charge remaining
- Locate the shift lock override access - look for a small rectangular cap or cover on the left side of the shifter base (driver's side of the console)
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or similar tool to carefully pry off the override access cover
- Insert the screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down firmly while simultaneously pulling the shifter out of Park
- Move the shifter to Neutral
- If the vehicle must be moved any distance, keep the override tool inserted and held down until the shifter is secured in Neutral
Shift-lock override location
Small covered slot on the left (driver's) side of the shifter base console, typically covered by a removable cap
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the shift lock override is mechanical and will still function. You will not be able to turn the steering wheel freely or use power brakes. The ignition does not need to be in any position for the mechanical override to work, but steering will remain locked.