🚨 2013 Acura ZDX: Emergency Neutral
The 2013 Acura ZDX uses a conventional console-mounted automatic shifter with electronic shift lock.
🧰 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 vehicle is on a level surface and set the parking brake firmly
- Turn the ignition to the ON (II) position if battery power is available
- Locate the shift-lock override slot: remove the small rectangular cap on the left side of the shifter base (driver's side of the shifter)
- Insert a flathead screwdriver or the key blade into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal (if power available) and move the shifter to Neutral
- If no brake feel or the shifter won't release, continue holding the override down and physically pull the shifter toward Neutral
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular cap on the left (driver's) side of the shifter base; slot accepts a screwdriver or key blade
With zero electrical power
With no battery power, the ignition cannot be turned on and the steering will lock. You must use the shift-lock override slot (press down with screwdriver while moving shifter to N). The override is mechanical and does not require electrical power. However, you will not be able to steer the vehicle—flatbed towing is required.