🚨 2017 Rolls-Royce Phantom VII: Emergency Neutral
The Phantom VII uses a traditional column-mounted gear selector lever on the right side of the steering column.
✓ 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 level ground and apply the parking brake if functional
- Turn the ignition key to the 'ON' position (or press START without depressing brake pedal to activate accessory power)
- Locate the shift lock override—a small access panel or slot near the base of the column shifter where it meets the column shroud
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or the mechanical key blade to access and press the override release
- While holding the override, move the column lever to Neutral
- If the brake pedal must be depressed but the brake light switch has failed, pressing the override bypasses the interlock entirely
Shift-lock override location
Small access slot or removable cap near the base of the column shifter assembly on the steering column; exact position may require removing a small trim piece on the column shroud
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the column shifter interlock cannot be electrically released. You must jump-start the vehicle or connect external 12V power to gain at least accessory power, then use the shift lock override. The mechanical key can unlock doors and turn ignition to accessory mode if battery has any residual charge.