🚨 2000 Jaguar S-Type: Emergency Neutral
The 2000 S-Type uses a traditional console-mounted automatic transmission shifter with a standard PRNDL gate and electronic shift interlock.
✓ Expert-verified by Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — master technicians, 20+ years each.
⚠️ 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 level surface and apply the parking brake.
- Turn the ignition key to the ON/ACC position (or at least ACC) - this provides power to the shift interlock system.
- Press and hold the brake pedal firmly.
- Press the button on the side of the shifter and move the lever from Park to Neutral.
- If the shifter will not move due to a failed brake switch or dead battery, locate the shift lock override slot.
- Look for a small covered slot or opening near the base of the shifter on the console, typically on the left side or front of the shifter base.
- Remove the small cover cap (it may require prying with a flat screwdriver or fingernail).
- Insert a small flat-blade screwdriver or the key into the override slot.
- While pressing down on the override release mechanism, press the shifter button and move the lever to Neutral.
- The vehicle can now be pushed or rolled.
Shift-lock override location
Small covered slot near the base of the shifter console, typically on the left side or forward area of the shifter base; requires removal of a small plastic cap
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead battery, turn the key to ACC or ON position if possible - the mechanical key cylinder may still operate the ignition switch contacts even with low voltage. If this provides enough power for the shift interlock solenoid, the shifter may release normally with the brake pedal and shifter button. If not, use the manual shift lock override slot with a screwdriver to mechanically bypass the interlock. The override works regardless of electrical power.