🚨 2015 Acura RLX: Emergency Neutral
The 2015 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid uses an electronic push-button shifter, while the base model has a conventional console lever, both with shift-by-wire technology.
✓ Expert-verified by Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — master technicians, 20+ years each.
⚠️ 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 engaged and wheels are chocked
- For push-button shifters (Sport Hybrid): Locate the shift lock override access, typically a small capped slot in the console trim near or below the shifter button panel
- For lever shifters (base RLX): Locate the shift lock override slot near the shifter base, usually under a small cap on the right side or front of the shifter surround
- Use a trim tool or flat-head screwdriver to carefully remove the override cover
- Insert a screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down firmly
- If you have any battery power, turn the ignition to ON (press start button twice without pressing brake pedal) to power up the shift control system
- While holding the override engaged, shift to Neutral—press the N button on push-button models, or move the lever to N on lever models
- If the shifter still won't move with the override engaged and ignition ON, the 12V battery may be too depleted for the shift control module to function
Shift-lock override location
Push-button models: in console near button panel, under a small cap. Lever models: near shifter base on the right side of the console surround, under a removable cap
With zero electrical power
The RLX shift-by-wire system requires electrical power to command the transmission into Neutral. With zero 12V power, even the manual override cannot mechanically shift the transmission. You must provide external power via jumper cables or a jump box to energize the vehicle's electrical system minimally, then use the override with ignition ON. Without any power source, the vehicle cannot be shifted and must be loaded onto a flatbed with wheels locked.
⚡ EV / hybrid warning
HYBRID WARNING: The RLX Sport Hybrid has an electric motor mechanically coupled to the transmission. Towing with drive wheels on the ground can cause the motor to generate electricity, potentially damaging the hybrid system. FLATBED TOWING IS REQUIRED for distances over 1 mile. If absolutely necessary to move a short distance (onto a flatbed), keep speed under 5 mph and distance under 1 mile. Do NOT tow with front wheels on the ground for any significant distance.