🚨 2007 Honda Civic Hybrid: Emergency Neutral
The 2007 Honda Civic Hybrid uses a console-mounted CVT shift lever with electronic shift lock tied to the brake-light circuit.
✓ 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 parking brake is firmly engaged and wheels are chocked.
- Turn the ignition key to position II (ON) if the 12V battery has any charge (this may allow normal brake-pedal shifting).
- If the shifter remains locked, locate the shift lock release cover: a small rectangular plastic cap on the right side of the shifter base (driver's right when seated).
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or similar tool to carefully pry off the shift lock release cover.
- Insert a key, screwdriver, or similar object into the release slot and press down while simultaneously pressing the shifter button and moving the lever to Neutral.
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be rolled or loaded onto a flatbed.
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular plastic cover on the right side of the shifter base (toward the passenger side); release slot is directly underneath.
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead 12V battery, the ignition cannot be turned on and the shift lock remains engaged. Use the manual shift lock release: remove the cover on the right side of the shifter base and insert a tool into the slot to release the lock while moving to Neutral. The hybrid system will not be active, and the steering wheel will remain locked, so the vehicle must be towed or rolled only short distances. Do not attempt to start or 'drive' the vehicle.
⚡ EV / hybrid warning
This is a hybrid vehicle. With no 12V power, the high-voltage system will not activate and the car cannot drive under its own power. For towing, the vehicle MUST be in Neutral and towed with the front wheels OFF the ground (flatbed or tow dolly) to avoid damage to the CVT and hybrid transaxle. Towing with front wheels on the ground will cause severe transmission damage. If the 12V battery is dead, the hybrid system will not engage even if you jump-start the 12V system—address the 12V battery issue before attempting to drive.