🚨 2021 Volvo S60: Emergency Neutral
The 2021 S60 uses a small, electronic console-mounted shift lever with integrated shift-by-wire technology.
🧰 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 a flat surface and apply the parking brake firmly.
- Attempt to turn the ignition to ON position using the START/STOP button (press without brake pedal) if any battery power remains.
- Locate the shift lock override: look for a small cover or slot on the right side of the shifter base, toward the passenger side of the console trim.
- Use the metal key blade or a small flathead screwdriver to remove the cover.
- Insert the tool into the override slot and press down firmly.
- While holding the override, press the brake pedal if possible and move the shifter to Neutral.
- If no brake pressure available, maintain firm pressure on the override and shift to Neutral with increased force.
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can roll. Keep the parking brake released for towing.
Shift-lock override location
Right side of shifter base on center console, under a small removable cover - exact position may vary slightly by trim
With zero electrical power
With zero battery power, the electronic shifter may be more difficult to override. The mechanical override should still function, but the shift-by-wire system relies on some electrical function. If completely dead, insert the tool into the override slot and apply very firm pressure while attempting to move the shifter. If this fails, the vehicle must be dollied or flatbedded with rear wheels lifted. Steering will be locked.