🚨 2020 Porsche 718 Boxster S: Emergency Neutral
The 2020 718 Boxster S with PDK (dual-clutch) transmission uses a conventional center console shifter lever with electronic shift-lock 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 vehicle is on a flat surface and apply the parking brake firmly.
- Turn the ignition to ON position (press start button without brake pedal, or use emergency key in steering column slot if battery is completely dead).
- Locate the small rectangular shift-lock override cover on the center console, positioned directly forward and to the left of the shifter base.
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or the mechanical key to carefully pry up and remove the override cover.
- Insert the screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down firmly while simultaneously pulling the shifter rearward to move it to Neutral.
- If successful, the shifter will move to N position; if the vehicle still has some electrical power, the gear indicator should confirm Neutral.
- Keep the override pressed until the shifter is fully engaged in Neutral, then release.
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular cover located on the center console trim directly forward and to the left of the shifter base; the override slot is accessed by removing this cover.
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, you must first use the mechanical emergency key (stored in the key fob) to unlock the driver's door. Insert this key into the ignition lock cylinder on the left side of the steering column and turn to position 1 or 2 to provide mechanical steering unlock. The shift-lock override will still function mechanically, but you will have no gear position indicator confirmation. Ensure parking brake is firmly applied before attempting to shift.