🚨 2016 Rolls-Royce Wraith: Emergency Neutral
The 2016 Wraith uses a traditional electronic console-mounted shifter lever with integrated shift-lock solenoid on the ZF 8-speed automatic transmission.
✓ 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 (or chock all wheels if parking brake is inoperative).
- Turn the ignition to ON position if 12V power is available; if battery is completely dead, see no-power notes below.
- Locate the shift-lock override access—on the right side of the shifter base, there is a small rectangular trim cap or cover near the leather boot.
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or trim tool to carefully pry off the shift-lock override cap.
- Insert a key, screwdriver, or similar tool into the override slot and press down firmly while simultaneously pulling the shifter rearward to Neutral.
- If the vehicle must be towed, keep the override depressed until the shifter reaches Neutral, then release.
- Confirm the gear indicator shows 'N' on the instrument cluster (if powered) or verify the shifter is in the center detent position.
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular access cover on the right side of the shifter base, adjacent to the leather boot; the override slot is directly beneath this cover.
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead battery, the electronic shifter lock will remain engaged and the override mechanism may be the only option. The override slot physically releases the solenoid pawl. If the 12V system is entirely dead and the override does not work, you may need to jump-start the vehicle minimally (even a small lithium jump pack) to energize the shift-lock solenoid long enough to move the lever. Rolls-Royce vehicles have complex electronics; if all else fails, contact Rolls-Royce Roadside Assistance or a specialty flatbed with dolly capability.