🚨 2021 McLaren Artura: Emergency Neutral
The Artura uses a console-mounted button array for gear selection (P, R, N, D) with electronic actuation and no traditional mechanical shifter linkage.
✓ 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 flat surface; the electronic parking brake should be engaged.
- If the high-voltage hybrid system is operational, press the Power button to wake the vehicle systems.
- Press and hold the Neutral (N) button on the center console gear selector array for several seconds until the transmission enters Neutral.
- If the system does not respond, turn the Power button off, wait 10 seconds, then press Power again and retry the N button.
- If the vehicle still will not enter Neutral electronically, or if the 12V battery is completely dead, the Artura MUST be transported on a flatbed with all four wheels off the ground—do not attempt to shift manually or tow with any wheels down.
- McLaren hybrid vehicles do not have a mechanical shift-lock override; the transmission is entirely electronically controlled.
- If the electronic parking brake will not release, the vehicle must be winched onto the flatbed.
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the Artura's electronic gear selector will not function at all. There is no mechanical shift-lock override or manual release mechanism. The vehicle MUST be loaded onto a flatbed with all four wheels off the ground using a winch or lift. Do not attempt to push, dolly with two wheels down, or flat-tow—the hybrid powertrain and electronic transmission require all wheels to be lifted. Contact McLaren Roadside Assistance immediately.
⚡ EV / hybrid warning
The Artura is a plug-in hybrid with both a high-voltage battery system and a gasoline engine. ALWAYS transport on a flatbed with all four wheels off the ground. The hybrid transmission has no mechanical neutral release, and towing with any wheels on the ground can cause severe damage to the electric drive units and transmission. If the high-voltage system is active (indicated by warning lights or sounds), do not touch the underbody or attempt to access drivetrain components. Contact McLaren Roadside Assistance or a McLaren-certified technician.