[dimensionaltravel]

Here is some info I gathered, hopefully it will save someone else time. AWD cars generally shouldn't be moved or towed unless they're in neutral. When your battery is dead, the electronic joystick won't work to shift into neutral.

Some models have a manual override inside the car.
- 2004-2010 X3: pull up the trim around the shifter. there will be a black plastic lever on the right. pry it up and hold it, and you'll be able to move the shifter.

- Some non-X3s have a big red key and a switch under the cupholder:

If you aren't able to use the interior method, there's a neutral override switch under the car. The switch is activated by screwing in a bolt on the transmission. Some models require a special tool, some are a 5mm allen. Apparently this applies to most BMW models.

Exterior neutral override switch procedure (on sedan but very helpful):

Some tow truck drivers will do this procedure for you. Look at the video and photos to see what the switch and bolt look like, then start removing underbody panels to find it (might take an 8mm or 13mm socket). I imagine it's usually near the centerline of the car, behind the front wheels.

On my wife's 2014 X3 (2nd gen, F25), I only had to remove one panel with 6 screws (8mm socket) to access it. It was the soft panel in the center, different material than the rest of the hard plastic ones. Screw in the neutral override switch bolt until it stops (5mm allen). That's it. I jacked up the front driver's side to make it easier, then lowered it before activating the switch. Make sure you have blocks behind the tires to keep it from rolling.



Remove this panel:

[Black Prinz]

Anybody know what the part number is for the Emergency parking brake release Handle for an F25?

24507590395?

[wxm]

Originally Posted by Black Prinz

Anybody know what the part number is for the Emergency parking brake release Handle for an F25?

24507590395?

This one? BMW Parking Brake Emergency Release Handle Tool - Genuine BMW 24507590395

[OddEighty]

For 2022-2023 X3, is raising the 5mm bolt still needed to put in neutral (if your battery is dead)?

Thanks

[vadsuhanc01]

I managed to put the car in neutral via bottom screw.
Now how to proceed when removing the bolt?
I removed it, but still the car is not in P and cannot start up/crank motor.

BMW f07 gt 353xd