🚨 2005 Daihatsu Esse: Emergency Neutral
The 2005 Daihatsu Esse uses a traditional console-mounted automatic shifter with a push-button release on the side of the lever.
🧰 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 firmly engaged.
- Turn the ignition key to ACC or ON position if battery has any charge remaining.
- Firmly press and hold the brake pedal.
- Press the release button on the side of the shifter and move to Neutral.
- If the shifter will not move due to shift-lock, locate the shift-lock override near the shifter base.
- Look for a small cover or slot on the console near the shifter (typically forward or to the side of the shifter base).
- Remove the cover cap if present, or locate the override slot.
- Insert a flathead screwdriver or the ignition key into the override slot and press down.
- While holding the override down, press the shifter button and move to Neutral.
- Replace the cover cap after shifting.
Shift-lock override location
Near the base of the shifter on the center console; look for a small removable cover forward or to the side of the shifter.
With zero electrical power
With zero electrical power, you cannot turn the ignition to ACC. Use the shift-lock override: locate the override slot near the shifter base (may be under a small cover cap), insert a screwdriver or key, press down to mechanically release the shift-lock solenoid, and move the shifter to Neutral.