🚨 2014 Honda Pilot: Emergency Neutral
The 2014 Honda Pilot uses a traditional console-mounted automatic shifter lever with electronic shift lock.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — cross-check against your owner’s manual when possible.
⚠️ 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 vehicle is on a level surface and set the parking brake firmly.
- Turn the ignition to the ON position (or ACC if battery is weak but not completely dead).
- Locate the shift lock release slot: it is a small rectangular opening with a removable cover cap located on the left side of the shifter base, near the driver's side.
- Use a flathead screwdriver or the metal key blade to pry off the small plastic cover cap.
- Insert the screwdriver or key straight down into the slot and press firmly while simultaneously pulling the shifter button and moving the shifter to Neutral.
- If successful, the shifter will move freely to Neutral; keep the override pressed until the shifter is fully in Neutral position.
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot with plastic cover cap on the left (driver's) side of the shifter base console
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the shift lock override is mechanical and will still function. Insert tool into override slot and press down firmly while moving shifter. The ignition does not need to be powered for the mechanical override to work. You may need to manually unlock the steering column lock if present by turning the key.