🚨 2001 Volvo S60: Emergency Neutral
The 2001 S60 (first-generation P2 platform) uses a conventional center console-mounted automatic transmission shifter with electronic shift lock and a pistol-grip style handle.
🧰 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 vehicle is on level ground and the parking brake is firmly engaged.
- Turn the ignition key to position I (accessory) if the battery has any charge remaining.
- Locate the shift lock override—look for a small cover or slot on the left side or front of the shifter base assembly, typically a small rectangular cover near the shift gate.
- Use a flathead screwdriver or similar tool to carefully remove or access the override cover.
- Insert a flathead screwdriver, key, or similar rigid tool into the override slot and press down firmly while simultaneously pressing the shifter release button and moving the shifter to Neutral.
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be pushed or loaded onto a flatbed.
Shift-lock override location
Near the shifter base on the left side or front—small rectangular cover or slot adjacent to the shift gate.
With zero electrical power
With zero electrical power, the shift lock override will still function mechanically. You do NOT need battery power to use the override mechanism. Simply access the override slot, insert the tool, press down, and shift to Neutral. The override mechanically releases the solenoid lock.