🚨 1997 Land Rover Range Rover: Emergency Neutral
The 1997 Range Rover P38A uses a floor-mounted console automatic transmission lever with electronic shift interlock system.
🧰 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 level ground and apply the parking brake firmly
- Turn the ignition key to the ON/II position if battery power is available (do not start engine)
- Locate the shift lock override access point on the right side of the shifter assembly, near the base of the leather boot
- There may be a small rectangular or circular plastic cap covering the override slot
- Use a flathead screwdriver or key blade to carefully pry off any cover cap
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver into the override slot and push down or toward the shifter to release the interlock
- While holding the override mechanism depressed, press the brake pedal (if power available) and press the shifter button to move to Neutral
- If no power is available, hold the override down, press the shifter button firmly, and apply force to move the lever to Neutral
Shift-lock override location
Right side of the shifter assembly near the base of the leather shift boot, typically under a small plastic access cap
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the P38A shift interlock becomes more difficult but the mechanical override still functions. Insert tool into override slot, push firmly, and physically manipulate the shifter button and lever together. You may need significant force. The transmission position display will not function, but the mechanical linkage will move to Neutral.