🚨 2024 Ford Puma PL: Emergency Neutral
The 2024 Ford Puma uses a console-mounted electronic shifter with a push-button start and electronic parking brake.
🧰 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
- Apply the parking brake firmly and chock the wheels.
- Turn the ignition to ON/RUN position (press start button twice without brake pedal, or use jump pack if battery dead).
- Press and hold the brake pedal firmly.
- Locate the shift lock override slot – a small covered opening near the base of the shifter console, typically on the right side or front of the shifter base.
- Remove the small plastic cap covering the override slot using a flathead screwdriver or by prying gently.
- Insert a flathead screwdriver, key, or small tool into the override slot and press down firmly.
- While holding the override down and keeping brake pedal pressed, move the shifter to Neutral.
- If the electronic parking brake will not release, the vehicle must be flatbedded – DO NOT tow with drive wheels on ground.
Shift-lock override location
Small covered slot near the shifter base on the console, typically to the right or front of the shifter – remove plastic cap to access
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, you must jump the 12V battery or use a jump pack to power the shift interlock system. The electronic shifter and parking brake require electrical power to function. If no power source is available, the vehicle must be flatbedded.
⚡ EV / hybrid warning
The Puma mild hybrid uses a 48V system but still has conventional drive wheels. Ensure the electronic parking brake is released before towing. If EPB cannot be released due to power loss, flatbed only – never tow with parking brake engaged.