🚨 2012 Volvo S60: Emergency Neutral
The 2012 S60 uses a console-mounted automatic transmission shifter with electronic shift lock.
🧰 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 parking brake is fully engaged
- Turn the ignition to position I or II if any battery power is available
- Locate the shift lock override slot on the shifter console - look for a small rectangular cover on the left side of the shifter base
- Use the metal key blade or a small flathead screwdriver to carefully pry off the cover cap
- Insert the key blade or screwdriver into the override slot and press down firmly
- While maintaining downward pressure on the override, press the brake pedal and shift the transmission to Neutral
- If the brake has no pressure, continue holding the override down and move the shifter to Neutral
- Replace the cover cap after shifting is complete
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot with removable cover on the left side of the shifter base at the center console
With zero electrical power
The shift lock override operates mechanically without electrical power. With a dead battery, insert the key or screwdriver into the override slot and press down firmly. The mechanical linkage will release the shifter lock. Apply steady pressure and rock the shifter gently if needed to help the mechanism disengage.