🚨 2026 Volvo S90 Recharge: Emergency Neutral
The 2026 S90 Recharge uses a compact electronic console-mounted shifter with a small lever that springs back to center after each selection.
✓ 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 parking brake is firmly engaged
- Locate the small rectangular shift-lock override slot on the right side of the shifter base, covered by a small cap
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or the metal key blade to carefully pry off the override cap
- Insert the key blade or screwdriver into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal (if 12V power is available) and move the shifter to N
- If no 12V power is available, while holding the override down, you may need to use the jump-start terminals under the hood to temporarily energize the shifter electronics
- For flatbed towing, activate tow mode through the center screen (Settings > Car > Towing) if the 12V system can be powered
Shift-lock override location
Right side of shifter base, under a small removable cap
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the electronic shifter will not function even with the override. You must either jump-start the 12V battery using the terminals under the hood (positive terminal under hood cover, negative on chassis ground) to temporarily power the shifter system, or winch the vehicle onto a flatbed with all wheels off the ground.
⚡ EV / hybrid warning
WARNING: The S90 Recharge is a plug-in hybrid. NEVER tow with front wheels on the ground as this will damage the electric motor and transmission. Always use a flatbed or trailer. If tow mode cannot be activated due to complete power loss, the vehicle MUST be loaded with all wheels off the ground using a winch or wheel dollies.