🚨 2016 Porsche 718 Cayman GTS: Emergency Neutral
The 2016 model uses the 981-generation PDK center console shifter (718 designation began mid-2016 for 2017MY).
🧰 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 parking brake is firmly engaged and the vehicle is on level ground
- Locate the shift lock override slot on the left side of the shifter base, behind a small rectangular cover cap
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or the metal key blade to pry off the override cover
- Insert the key or screwdriver into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal (if possible) and move the shifter to Neutral
- If no electrical power exists, the override alone may allow movement to Neutral without brake pressure
Shift-lock override location
Left side of shifter base, behind a small rectangular plastic cap
With zero electrical power
With completely dead 12V battery, the shift lock override should still function mechanically. You may need to manually release the parking brake using the emergency release pull handle located under the center console trim near the driver's left knee. Access requires removing console side trim panel.