🚨 2019 Fiat 500 BR: Emergency Neutral
The 2019 Fiat 500 uses a traditional console-mounted automatic transmission shifter with electronic shift interlock.
🧰 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 a flat surface and set the parking brake firmly
- Turn the ignition to the ON/RUN position if possible (battery voltage present)
- Locate the shift lock override slot - it is a small rectangular slot with a plastic cover located on the left side of the shifter base console
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or similar tool to pry off the plastic cover
- Press down firmly on the override button inside the slot while simultaneously pressing the brake pedal (if power available) and moving the shifter to Neutral
- If no power is available and the override alone does not work, keep firm downward pressure on the override while rocking the shifter gently forward toward Neutral
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be moved or towed
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot with plastic cover on the left side of the shifter base console near the driver's side
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, you may need to use a jump pack or external 12V source momentarily to energize the shift lock solenoid. If unavailable, continuous firm pressure on the override release while manipulating the shifter may eventually allow movement to Neutral, though this requires significant force.