🚨 2017 Acura RLX: Emergency Neutral
The 2017 Acura RLX uses an electronic push-button shifter (Sport Hybrid trim) or a console-mounted lever shifter (base trim), both with shift-by-wire technology requiring electrical power.
✓ 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 the parking brake and ensure wheels are chocked
- Provide 12V power to the vehicle using jumper cables or a portable jump starter—this is mandatory for shift-by-wire operation
- Press the push-to-start button twice without pressing the brake pedal to put the ignition in ON (Accessory) mode
- Locate the shift lock override access: on push-button shifters, look in the console area near or below the button panel for a small rubber cap or trim piece; on lever shifters, check near the shifter base for a small capped slot
- Remove the override cover carefully with a trim tool or small screwdriver
- Insert a small screwdriver, key, or similar tool into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override engaged, shift to Neutral—press the N button (push-button) or move the lever to N (lever shifter)
- Verify the gear indicator shows N before releasing the parking brake for movement
Shift-lock override location
Push-button models: in the console near the button panel under a small cap. Lever models: near the base of the shifter on the console, typically under a cap on the right side
With zero electrical power
The 2017 RLX has full electronic shift-by-wire with no mechanical linkage to the transmission. With zero 12V power, the transmission control module is completely offline and cannot respond to shifter inputs, even with the shift lock override engaged. You MUST supply external 12V power first. Connect jumper cables or a jump box, turn the ignition to ON mode, and then use the shift lock override to enable Neutral. If no external power source is available, the vehicle cannot be shifted from Park and must be transported on a flatbed as-is.
⚡ EV / hybrid warning
HYBRID WARNING for Sport Hybrid models: This vehicle has electric motors mechanically integrated with the drivetrain. Towing with the front wheels on the ground causes the motors to rotate and generate electricity, which can cause catastrophic damage to the hybrid battery, inverter, and electric motor controllers. FLATBED TOWING ONLY. If you must move the vehicle a very short distance to position it for loading (such as pushing it onto a flatbed), keep speed under 5 mph and distance under 1 mile. Never, under any circumstances, tow this hybrid with front wheels on the ground for regular transport.