🚨 2000 Honda CR-V: Emergency Neutral
The 2000 Honda CR-V (first generation, 1997-2001) uses a console-mounted automatic transmission lever with mechanical shift lock.
🧰 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 ON (II) position if you have battery power available.
- Locate the shift lock release cover—it is a small rectangular or square cap located on the console near the shifter base, typically to the right or front-right of the shifter.
- Pry off the small plastic cover using a flat-blade screwdriver or your fingernail.
- Insert a screwdriver, key, or similar tool into the exposed shift lock release slot and press down firmly.
- While holding the release down, press the shifter button and move the shifter to Neutral.
- If the battery is completely dead, the mechanical override will still function; you simply won't have ignition-on capability.
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be pushed or winched onto a flatbed.
Shift-lock override location
Small covered slot near the shifter base on the center console, typically to the right or front-right of the shifter; remove plastic cap to access.
With zero electrical power
The shift lock override is mechanical and does not require electrical power. Without power, you cannot turn the ignition on, but the override will still release the shifter.