🚨 2003 Acura RL: Emergency Neutral
The 2003 Acura RL uses a traditional console-mounted automatic transmission shifter with electronic shift interlock.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — cross-check against your owner’s manual when possible.
⚠️ 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 and wheels are chocked.
- Turn the ignition to the ACC or ON position if battery power is available.
- Locate the shift lock override slot on the left side of the shifter base near the P position.
- Remove the small rectangular cover cap by gently prying it with a flat-head screwdriver or similar tool.
- Insert a small flat-head screwdriver, key, or similar tool into the override slot.
- Press down firmly on the override release while simultaneously pressing the shifter button and moving the shifter to Neutral.
- If the battery is completely dead, you may need to jump start the 12V battery first to power the shift lock solenoid, or continue holding the override while moving to Neutral.
Shift-lock override location
Left side of the shifter base near the P position, under a small rectangular cover cap.
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the shift lock solenoid may not release. The mechanical override should work but may require significant pressure. If unsuccessful, jump starting the battery to provide minimal power to the shift lock system is recommended before attempting to shift.