🚨 2016 Acura RLX: Emergency Neutral
The 2016 Acura RLX features an electronic push-button shifter (Sport Hybrid) or console lever shifter (base), both using 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
- Engage parking brake fully and chock the wheels
- Locate the shift lock override access—on push-button models, look for a small capped opening in the console near the button panel; on lever models, check near the shifter base on the right or front side
- Remove the override cover using a trim tool or small flat-head screwdriver
- Connect a jump box or jumper cables to provide 12V power to the vehicle—the shift-by-wire system requires electrical power to operate
- Press the push-to-start button twice (without pressing the brake pedal) to turn the ignition to ON mode
- Insert a screwdriver or key into the shift lock override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, shift to Neutral—press the N button (push-button shifter) or move the lever to N (lever shifter)
- If the shift still won't engage, verify that the ignition is in ON mode and the jump box/cables are providing adequate voltage
Shift-lock override location
Push-button models: small capped slot in console near the shifter button panel. Lever models: capped slot near the shifter base on the console, typically right side
With zero electrical power
Critical: The 2016 RLX uses electronic shift-by-wire with no mechanical cable connection between shifter and transmission. With absolutely zero electrical power, the transmission CANNOT be shifted even with the override tool inserted. You MUST provide external 12V power via jumper cables or a portable jump starter before attempting to shift. Connect power, turn ignition to ON, then use the override. Without power, the only option is flatbed towing with the transmission locked in Park.
⚡ EV / hybrid warning
HYBRID WARNING for Sport Hybrid models: The electric propulsion motor is directly connected to the transmission. Towing with the front (drive) wheels on the ground will rotate the motor and generate uncontrolled voltage, which can severely damage the hybrid battery and power electronics. FLATBED ONLY for all towing. Even moving the car onto a flatbed, limit distance to under 1 mile at under 5 mph if front wheels must touch the ground. Never tow this vehicle with front wheels down for any significant distance.