🚨 2021 Honda N-Box: Emergency Neutral
The 2021 N-Box uses a console-mounted automatic transmission lever with electronic shift lock integrated into the shifter assembly.
🧰 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
- Ensure the parking brake is firmly engaged and the vehicle is on level ground
- Turn the ignition to ON position if battery power is available (this may allow normal shifting if only the brake switch failed)
- Locate the shift lock override slot - it is typically a small rectangular opening with a cover cap near the base of the shifter on the right side
- Remove the cover cap by prying gently with a flat-blade screwdriver or your fingernail
- Insert a small flat-blade screwdriver, key, or similar tool into the override slot
- Press the tool down firmly while simultaneously pressing the shifter button and moving the shifter to Neutral
- Keep the tool pressed while shifting; the mechanical override disengages the shift lock solenoid
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be moved or loaded
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot with cover cap located near the base of the shifter assembly, typically on the right side of the shifter - exact position may vary slightly by trim
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the shift lock override is purely mechanical and will still function. The override slot physically releases the shift lock mechanism independent of electrical power. You will not have any instrument panel feedback, but the shifter will move to Neutral when the override is pressed.