🚨 2008 Land Rover Freelander: Emergency Neutral
The 2008 Freelander 2 (LR2 in North America) uses a traditional console-mounted shift lever with 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 parking brake is firmly applied and wheels are chocked.
- Turn the ignition to ON position if battery has any charge (this may release the interlock automatically).
- Locate the shift lock override slot - it is a small rectangular slot with a plastic cover cap located on the right side of the shifter base in the center console.
- Use a flathead screwdriver or key to pry off the plastic cover cap.
- Press brake pedal fully (if possible with electrical power).
- Insert a flathead screwdriver or similar tool into the override slot and press down firmly.
- While holding the override down, press the shifter button and move the lever to Neutral.
- The vehicle can now be rolled or towed with all four wheels on the ground for short distances only (see owner's manual for AWD towing restrictions).
Shift-lock override location
Right side of shifter base in center console, under a small rectangular plastic cover cap
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the shift lock override will still work mechanically. You will not be able to turn the ignition to release the steering lock, so the steering wheel will remain locked. Use the override slot method and ensure the vehicle is loaded onto a flatbed rather than towed.