🚨 2020 Land Rover Discovery Sport: Emergency Neutral
The 2020 Discovery Sport uses a rotary dial shifter that rises from the center console when the vehicle is powered on.
✓ 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 parking brake is firmly engaged and the vehicle is on level ground or properly chocked
- Turn the ignition to ON/Accessory position if you have any battery power (even from a jump box) - this allows the rotary shifter to rise and be manipulated
- If the brake pedal feels firm and the shift interlock won't release when pressing the brake, locate the shift lock override
- The shift lock override is a small plastic cap located in the lower console area near the base of the rotary shifter - on some trims it's in the cup holder area forward of the shifter
- Pry off the override cap using a flat tool or your fingernail
- Insert a key, small screwdriver, or pen into the override slot and press down firmly while attempting to rotate the shifter to Neutral
- With the shifter in Neutral, the vehicle can be rolled or loaded onto a flatbed
Shift-lock override location
Small cap-covered slot in the lower console near the rotary shifter base, often in the cup holder area forward of the shifter - exact location varies by trim year
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the rotary shifter will not rise from the console. You must use the shift lock override access (after removing the cap) while simultaneously attempting to manually pull/rotate the shifter knob upward and into position. This is difficult and may require significant force. A jump box to provide minimal power is strongly recommended. If the shifter cannot be manipulated at all, the vehicle must be placed on wheel dollies or a flatbed with all four wheels off the ground.