Getting car out of Park

[Kace]

Not quite FTO related guys but I'm currently trying to get an old abandoned BMW E30 automatic out of 'Park' gear - without the keys.

Any of you guys out there with Tips know whether it is possible to get your cars into Neutral without the keys ?

[CJ]

Any of you guys out there with Tips know whether it is possible to get your cars into Neutral without the keys ?

Not possible without the ignition engaged in the FTO, I would imagine its the same craic with most auto boxes. IIRC, theres a solenoid that need to be open in order to move thye shifter, without ripping things apary, you might be in trouble. Mayvb e try asking thye same Q on a BMW forum?Worst case scenario, you could source a second-hand ignition barrel and key....

CJ

[CJ]

Works on my FTO

...but not on mine without turning the ignition to the ACC position. I suspect the link cable from the gearbox to the ignition is disconnected on your motor gfalls?

You can't tow an automatic car without the engine running or you will wreck the gearbox

Not strictly true. If an auto is towed with all wheels on the ground, neutral must be engaged, towing speed must not exceed 50kph and distance covered should not exceed 50k (at least thats what a mechanic told me one time...)

That said, I'd be inclined to use a towing dolly to tow an auto - unless I'd no other choice that is....

CJ