🚨 2020 Daihatsu Hijet: Emergency Neutral
The 2020 Daihatsu Hijet pickup uses a floor-mounted shifter with a mechanical shift lock mechanism typical of Japanese kei trucks.
🧰 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
- Set the parking brake firmly and chock the wheels.
- Turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON position if battery power is available.
- Firmly depress the brake pedal.
- Locate the shift lock override slot, typically a small covered opening near the base of the shifter on the left or right side.
- Remove the cover cap by prying gently with a flat tool or your fingernail.
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver or similar tool into the override slot and press down while simultaneously pulling the shift lever out of Park.
- Move the shifter to Neutral.
- If the vehicle must be moved with no power, keep the override tool depressed while shifting.
Shift-lock override location
Small covered slot near the shifter base, typically on the left or right side of the shifter console; exact location may vary by trim.
With zero electrical power
With no battery power, the shift lock should mechanically release more easily. Insert the override tool and apply downward pressure while shifting to Neutral. The steering wheel will remain locked; vehicle must be towed or pushed in Neutral with wheels straight.