🚨 2017 Honda N-Box: Emergency Neutral
The 2017 Honda N-Box features a console-mounted automatic transmission lever with electronic shift lock controlled by the brake pedal interlock system.
✓ 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 parking brake is firmly engaged and wheels are chocked
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position (if battery has any charge)
- Locate the shift lock override slot - it is typically a small covered slot near the base of the shifter console
- Remove the small rectangular cover cap on the shifter console (may require a flat-blade screwdriver to pry gently)
- Insert a small flat-blade screwdriver or key into the override slot
- Press down firmly on the override mechanism while simultaneously pressing the shifter button and moving the lever to Neutral
- If successful, the shifter will move freely to N without brake pedal depression
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular covered slot located near the shifter base on the center console, typically on the left side or front of the shifter assembly
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the electronic shift lock may still be engaged. The mechanical shift lock override must be used. If the ignition cannot be turned to ACC position due to electronic steering lock, you may need to jump-start the 12V battery minimally to release the steering lock and allow ignition rotation. Some N-Box variants have a mechanical key override for the ignition. The shift lock override is mechanical and will work without power once accessed.