🚨 2010 Honda Civic Hybrid: Emergency Neutral
The 2010 Civic Hybrid uses a traditional console-mounted automatic shifter lever 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
- Set the parking brake firmly and chock the wheels.
- Turn the ignition to ON (II) position if you have any 12V power—this allows the shift lock to release normally with the brake pedal.
- If you have no 12V power or a failed brake-light switch, locate the shift lock override slot: it is under a small rectangular trim cap on the left side of the shifter base, near the driver's side of the shifter.
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or key to pry off the trim cap.
- Insert the screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down firmly while pulling the shifter out of Park into Neutral.
- If the car will not be towed with rear wheels on the ground, verify the IMA (Integrated Motor Assist) system is OFF—the hybrid system should automatically be off with the ignition off and no power.
- For flatbed towing, proceed normally; for dolly towing with rear wheels up, follow Honda's towing procedures.
Shift-lock override location
Under a small rectangular trim cap on the left side of the shifter base, near the driver's side
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the ignition cannot be turned on, but the mechanical shift lock override still functions. Remove the trim cap and use the override slot to manually release the shifter into Neutral. The steering wheel will remain locked, so the vehicle must be towed on a flatbed or with the front wheels off the ground using a dolly.
⚡ EV / hybrid warning
HYBRID WARNING: The IMA battery system can power components even with the 12V dead. Always ensure ignition is OFF. The 2010 Civic Hybrid can be flat-towed (all four wheels down) for very short distances only if in Neutral with ignition OFF—but Honda recommends flatbed towing for all hybrid models to prevent damage to the electric motor and CVT. Never tow with rear wheels on ground and front wheels lifted for extended distances.