🚨 2008 Maserati Quattroporte: Emergency Neutral
The 2008 Quattroporte uses a traditional console-mounted automatic transmission lever with electronic shift lock.
✓ 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 parking brake is engaged
- Turn the ignition key to the ON position if 12V power is available (this may release the shift lock automatically)
- Locate the shift lock override slot - it is a small rectangular opening near the base of the shifter console, typically covered by a small plastic cap on the driver's side of the shifter
- Remove the plastic cap by prying gently with a flat-blade screwdriver or your fingernail
- Insert a small flat-blade screwdriver or similar tool into the override slot
- Press down firmly on the override while simultaneously pressing the brake pedal (if power available) and moving the shifter to Neutral
- If moving to Neutral for towing, keep the tool depressed until the shifter is fully engaged in Neutral
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot near the base of the shifter console on the driver's side, covered by a plastic cap
With zero electrical power
With no 12V power, the shift lock override mechanism may still function mechanically. Insert the tool into the override slot and attempt to shift to Neutral without the ignition on. If this fails, the steering column lock may also be engaged - you will need to jump-start the 12V battery or connect an external power source to release all locks before the vehicle can be moved.