🚨 2017 Acura TLX: Emergency Neutral
The 2017 TLX uses a console-mounted electronic shifter (push-button for some trims, lever for others depending on transmission); the 8-speed DCT models have a lever shifter with electronic shift lock.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — details like the exact override location may vary by trim; verify visually before prying anything.
⚠️ 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 parking brake is firmly set and you're on level ground
- Turn ignition to ON mode if battery has any charge (press START button without brake pedal twice)
- Firmly press and hold the brake pedal
- Locate the shift lock override—on lever-equipped TLX, look for a small rectangular slot with a rubber or plastic cap on the driver's side of the shifter base
- Remove the cap by prying gently with a flathead screwdriver or key
- Insert the screwdriver or key into the override slot
- Press down or push in the override release while holding the brake pedal
- While holding the override, move the shifter to Neutral
- Release the override and replace the cap
Shift-lock override location
Small slot on the driver's side of the shifter base, typically covered by a small cap
With zero electrical power
With zero battery power, the push-button START will not activate ignition. The mechanical override still functions—simply press the brake pedal and use the shift lock override slot to manually release the shifter. No electrical power is required for the override mechanism itself.