🚨 2020 Rolls-Royce Phantom VIII: Emergency Neutral
The Phantom VIII features an electronically controlled column-mounted gear selector lever on the right side of the steering column, redesigned from the previous generation.
✓ 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
- Press the START button without depressing the brake pedal to activate accessory power (vehicle will not start but systems will energize)
- Locate the shift lock override access—look for a small cap or slot near the base of the column shifter assembly where it connects to the steering column
- Remove any small trim cap if present using a plastic pry tool or fingernail
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver or the mechanical key blade into the override slot and press firmly
- While holding the override pressed, move the column lever to Neutral
- Release the override and verify the gear indicator shows 'N'
Shift-lock override location
Near the base of the column shifter where it meets the steering column shroud; may be concealed under a small removable trim cap on the lower portion of the shifter assembly
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, you must provide external 12V power (jump box or jumper cables) to energize the vehicle's electrical system to at least accessory mode before the shift lock override will function. The Phantom VIII's electronic architecture requires minimum voltage to release the shifter mechanism even with manual override. Connect power, activate accessory mode, then use override procedure.