My 2000 S-type has not been shifting into neutral, got the common suggestions of stretched cable, checking the two bolts (was informed that was for the later models though). After i removed the center console, I had noticed that the box the shifter goes into is broken on one side. When I try to shift it to park the side with the break bows out a lot and it seems like it doesn't provide the leverage for the the shifter to move the mechanism any further forward. So intil I can get the parts needed (that box and new cable) is there any way to make it so the battery doesn't die every time I park the car for a few hours? Can't get the gear shifter in park so can't get the key out. Thanks

 

You could disconnect the battery

Not ideal but better than flat.

Or maybe hunt through the electrical guide for fuse(s)/relay(s) to remove.

 

and more importantly, does anyone know where I could fond said box...cheaply

 

A wrecker / ebay / ...

 

Thanks for the help, got the new gear shifter and put it in. I can now shift to park (hooray) and take the keys out (hooray). However, now when I go to start it, it just shuts down. It works with the key in the accessory position but when I actually try to crank the engine it just cuts power to everything. Could this be a result of the battery being dead (using a jumper box) and needing a good charge or it something worse?

 

test your battery it sounds to be dead! also check your battery terminals are secure.