🚨 2017 Daihatsu Cast: Emergency Neutral
The 2017 Daihatsu Cast features a floor-mounted console automatic shifter with electronic shift lock interlock.
🧰 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 the vehicle is on level ground and the parking brake is fully engaged
- Turn the ignition key to ACC or ON position if any battery power remains
- Locate the shift lock override access - look for a small cap or cover near the base of the shifter assembly on the console
- Remove the override cover by carefully prying it off with a flat tool or fingernail
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver, ignition key, or similar thin tool into the exposed override slot
- Press down firmly on the override release while simultaneously pressing the brake pedal and moving the shifter out of Park
- Move the shifter to Neutral position
- If completely dead battery: continue holding override down with tool while pulling shifter to Neutral without brake pedal - use firm force
- Vehicle can now be moved or winched onto flatbed
Shift-lock override location
Look for a small removable cap or slot near the shifter base on the center console, typically positioned to the right or forward of the shifter lever itself
With zero electrical power
With zero battery power, the mechanical override will still function. You do not need ignition power. Insert tool into override slot and maintain firm downward pressure while forcefully moving the shifter to Neutral. The mechanism may be stiff without electrical assist but will release mechanically.