🚨 2019 MG HS: Emergency Neutral
The 2019 MG HS uses a console-mounted electronic shifter with a button on the shifter knob and electronic shift interlock.
🧰 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
- Set the parking brake firmly and chock the wheels.
- Turn the ignition to ON position if battery has any charge remaining (without starting the engine).
- Locate the shift lock override cover: look for a small rectangular or circular plastic cover near the base of the shifter on the center console, typically on the left side or front edge of the shifter surround.
- Use a flathead screwdriver or similar tool to carefully pry off the override cover.
- Insert a flathead screwdriver, key, or similar tool into the override slot and press down firmly.
- While holding the override down, press the button on the shifter knob and move the shifter to Neutral.
- Keep the override depressed until the shifter is fully in Neutral position.
Shift-lock override location
Small plastic cover near the base of the center console shifter, generally on the left side or front of the shifter surround. Check the owner's manual for precise location as it may vary by trim.
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the electronic shifter may not function even with the override, as many modern electronic shifters require some electrical power to disengage. If the override does not work with zero power, the vehicle must be transported on a flatbed or dolly with rear wheels raised (front-wheel drive). Do not attempt to flat-tow. A jump start may be necessary to engage Neutral.