🚨 2018 Fiat Tipo PL: Emergency Neutral
The 2018 Fiat Tipo uses a conventional console-mounted automatic transmission shifter with electronic shift lock 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 apply the parking brake firmly
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position if battery has any charge remaining
- Locate the shift lock override release—look for a small rectangular cap or slot near the shifter base on the console
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or the vehicle's physical key to carefully pry off the override cover
- Insert the screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down firmly while holding
- While maintaining pressure on the override, press the brake pedal if possible and move the shifter out of Park to Neutral
- If no electrical power exists, continue holding the override down and manually shift to Neutral without the brake pedal
Shift-lock override location
Located near the base of the console shifter assembly, typically forward or to the right side under a small removable plastic cap
With zero electrical power
With zero battery power, the mechanical shift lock override remains functional. Insert tool into the override slot, apply downward pressure, and shift to Neutral. Steering lock will remain engaged with no power, requiring flatbed transport with front wheels on dollies or vehicle loaded from the rear.