🚨 2020 Hyundai Tucson: Emergency Neutral
The 2020 Tucson Hybrid uses a conventional console-mounted automatic shifter with electronic shift lock and electronic parking brake.
✓ 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 the vehicle is on a flat surface. If possible, apply wheel chocks before proceeding.
- Attempt to turn the ignition to ON or ACC position if the 12V battery has sufficient charge.
- Locate the shift-lock override slot: it is on the left side of the shifter base (driver's side), covered by a small rectangular plastic cap.
- Use a flathead screwdriver or trim tool to carefully pry off the plastic cap.
- Insert a screwdriver, key, or similar tool into the override slot and press down firmly.
- While holding down the override, press the shifter release button and move the shifter to Neutral.
- The electronic parking brake (EPB) may remain engaged even in Neutral. If the vehicle has ANY 12V power, press and hold the EPB switch while pressing the brake pedal to release it. If no power, the EPB will remain engaged and the vehicle cannot roll—flatbed towing is required.
- Once in Neutral with EPB released, the vehicle can be moved.
Shift-lock override location
Left side of the shifter base near the driver's side, covered by a small rectangular plastic cap
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead 12V battery, the electronic parking brake (EPB) CANNOT be released electrically. You can shift to Neutral using the mechanical override, but the rear brakes will remain locked. The vehicle must be loaded onto a flatbed with the rear wheels lifted or dragged (not recommended). Jump-starting the 12V battery to release the EPB is strongly preferred.
⚡ EV / hybrid warning
HYBRID WARNING: The 2020 Tucson Hybrid has electric drive capability. Ensure the vehicle is fully powered down (READY indicator off) before attempting to shift. When in Neutral on a flatbed, the parking brake must be released and the vehicle must be secured with straps. Do NOT tow with any wheels on the ground—hybrid transmission damage will occur. Always use flatbed towing only.