🚨 2020 Fiat 500L: Emergency Neutral
The 2020 Fiat 500L uses a traditional console-mounted automatic transmission lever with electronic shift lock.
🧰 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 parking brake is firmly engaged
- Locate the shift lock override slot - it is a small rectangular opening with a protective cap near the base of the shifter console, typically on the left side or front of the shifter boot
- Remove the protective cap by prying gently with a flat-blade screwdriver or your finger
- Insert a flat-blade screwdriver, key, or similar tool into the override slot
- Press down firmly on the override mechanism while simultaneously pressing the shifter button and moving the lever to Neutral
- Keep the tool pressed down until the shifter is fully in Neutral position
- Replace the protective cap after shifting
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot with protective cap near the shifter base, typically left side or forward of the shifter boot area
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the shift lock override is mechanical and will still function - no electrical power is required to use the override slot. However, you may need to manually unlock the driver's door with the physical key to access the interior.