How to Put the Ferrari F8 Into Neutral | GVE London – Blog

If you own or ever find yourself in a Ferrari F8, knowing how to put the car in neutral can feel a bit unfamiliar. In this blog, we’ll tell you about all the ways you can do so, even when the batteries are gone (yes, this car needs electronic power from the battery to go into neutral, but there is an alternative). Let’s begin.

How to Put a Ferrari F8 in Neutral

Using the Paddle Shift Method

The method you’re supposed to use is the paddle-shifter method. Modern Ferraris use paddle-operated dual-clutch gearboxes, so to put the F8 into neutral, just pull both shift paddles at the same time. This method works on many Ferrari models with similar gearboxes. This is the easy part, and if you don’t know this, you probably shouldn’t be behind the wheel.

When the Car Has No Power

Now, let’s talk about the actually complex part. You see, just like many other modern cars, the F8 is super reliant on electronic power for even basic functions like shifting into neutral. The paddles won’t work if the battery has gone flat, so you’ll need to get creative now and channel your inner engineer:

Manual Release Procedure

First, you must open the car’s trunk. Now, without batteries, that won’t open normally either. So, you’ll have to pull a red pull cable located on the passenger side. Once that opens up, lift the hood and you’ll find a toolkit. Grab the L-shaped tool and the bar.

You’ll need to connect the two tools together, look for the indent on the bar in order to do so. Now, go to the engine bay and near the transmission, you’ll find an Allen key hole.

This part is important: DO NOT apply pressure or force the tool in. It should glide in smoothly without hitting anything else. Fit the key, and once it is set, turn it anticlockwise; the car will go into neutral.

Read Also: Ferrari F8 Tributo Essential Maintenance Tips

The Role of Professional Servicing

This is a sensitive procedure, no two ways about it. Messing up can result in equally massive repair bills; transmissions are never cheap to repair or replace, especially when it’s one of a Ferrari F8. 

However, if you understand the procedure and perform the steps correctly, you shouldn’t run into any trouble; it is merely twisting the Allen key anticlockwise and watching your car go into neutral. But yes, too much pressure, a bad fit, losing control of the tool during the procedure; they can smell trouble. We’re not discouraging DIYs, simply making the risk public knowledge. 

If you are unsure, or if battery and brake systems are involved, contact a professional for regular Ferrari F8 servicing — for example, the team at GVE London. We’re a recognised Ferrari servicing centre with the correct tools and know-how.

Conclusion

Putting an F8 into neutral is simple when the car has power. Pull both paddles together, and the gearbox will usually drop to neutral. If the car is dead or the brakes are locked, the manual release in the front boot is the backup option, but this should be handled by trained technicians. When in doubt, book the car into a Ferrari servicing centre or a trusted car service centre to avoid stress and costly mistakes. Furthermore, being enthusiasts, we not only perform the usual repairs and service but can work on customisation, window tints and detailing as well. To know more, hop on a call with us today!