🚨 2025 Honda WR-V: Emergency Neutral
The 2025 WR-V uses a console-mounted automatic transmission lever with an electronic shift lock system.
🧰 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 vehicle is on level ground and apply the parking brake firmly
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position if battery has any charge remaining
- Locate the shift lock override slot - look for a small rectangular or circular cover cap near the base of the shifter assembly, typically on the right side
- Use a flat-blade screwdriver or similar tool to carefully pry off the override cover cap
- Insert the screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal (if power available) and move the shifter to Neutral
- If no power, continue holding the override down while moving the shifter directly to Neutral
Shift-lock override location
Small cover cap near the shifter base on the right side of the shifter console - inspect around the shifter surround for the access point
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead battery, the shift lock override is mechanical and will still function. You do not need power to use the override slot. Simply remove the cover, insert a tool into the slot, press down, and shift to Neutral without pressing the brake pedal.