🚨 2019 Daihatsu Tanto: Emergency Neutral
The 2019 Daihatsu Tanto (LA650S/LA660S generation) uses a console-mounted automatic transmission shifter with electronic shift 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
- Set the parking brake and chock the wheels securely
- Turn the ignition key to ACC or ON position if any battery power remains
- Locate the shift lock override slot on the console near the shifter - look for a small rectangular or circular cover
- Carefully pry off the override cover cap using a small flat tool
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver or similar tool into the exposed override slot
- Press down firmly on the override release while simultaneously pressing the brake pedal
- Move the shifter from Park to Neutral while maintaining pressure on the override
- If brake pedal is firm due to no power brake assist, continue applying pressure to override and shift with more force
- Verify shifter is fully in Neutral position before moving vehicle
Shift-lock override location
Console area adjacent to the shifter base, covered by a small removable cap - typical location is to the right or front of the shifter lever
With zero electrical power
The shift lock override is a mechanical release that functions without electrical power. With a completely dead battery, you will need to use physical force as the brake pedal will be very stiff without power assist. The override mechanism bypasses the electronic interlock entirely. Steering wheel may be locked - slight rotation while turning key may help unlock it.