🚨 2006 Daihatsu Esse: Emergency Neutral
The 2006 Daihatsu Esse uses a simple console-mounted automatic shifter with electronic shift lock.
✓ 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
- Ensure the vehicle is on level ground and apply the parking brake firmly.
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position if battery has any charge remaining.
- Locate the shift lock override slot near the base of the shifter - it is typically on the right side or front of the shifter housing.
- Remove the small plastic cover cap over the override slot using a flathead screwdriver or by prying gently.
- Insert a flathead screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down firmly.
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal if possible and shift to N.
- If the brake pedal cannot be pressed, maintain pressure on the override and carefully move the shifter to N.
- Replace the cover cap after the vehicle is in neutral.
Shift-lock override location
Small covered slot near the shifter base on the right side or front of the housing - exact position may vary slightly
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery: the mechanical shift lock override still functions. Use the override procedure above without turning the ignition. The steering will be locked, so the vehicle must be loaded onto a flatbed rather than towed with wheels on the ground. Being a small kei car, the Esse is easy to load.