🚨 2016 Smart ForTwo: Emergency Neutral
The 2016 Smart ForTwo uses a center console-mounted lever shifter for its 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (Twinamic).
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — cross-check against your owner’s manual when possible.
⚠️ 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 parking brake is engaged
- Locate the shift lock override slot on the right side of the shifter base, under a small rectangular cover cap
- Use a flathead screwdriver or similar tool to pry off the override cover cap
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver, key, or similar object into the exposed override slot
- Press down firmly on the override release while simultaneously moving the shifter from Park to Neutral
- Keep pressure on the override until the shifter is fully in Neutral position
- If the vehicle has absolutely no electrical power, the manual override is the only method to release the shifter
Shift-lock override location
Right side of the shifter base, under a small rectangular cover cap approximately 1 inch from the shifter lever
With zero electrical power
With zero electrical power, the mechanical shift lock override is your only option. The dual-clutch transmission requires no special procedures for towing in Neutral once the shifter is released. Ensure all four wheels are on the ground or use a flatbed.