🚨 2003-2013 Infiniti FX35: Emergency Neutral
The FX35 across both generations (2003-2008 S50, 2009-2013 S51) uses a floor-mounted console shifter with electronic shift lock; the second generation may have revised trim but similar override mechanism.
🧰 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 a level surface and set the parking brake firmly
- Turn the ignition to the ACC or ON position if battery has any charge remaining
- Locate the shift lock override release: on 2003-2008 models, look for a small cap near the left side of the shifter base; on 2009-2013 models, the override slot is typically found on the driver's side of the shifter assembly under a small removable cap
- Remove the cap using a flat-blade screwdriver or the metal key blade
- While pressing the brake pedal (if possible), insert a screwdriver or key firmly into the override slot and press straight down
- While holding the override mechanism down, move the shifter from Park to Neutral
- Remove the tool and replace the access cap
- The vehicle can now be moved or towed; diagnose the shift lock or brake switch issue after reaching a safe location
Shift-lock override location
Small capped slot on the driver's side (left side) of the shifter base; location is similar across both S50 (2003-2008) and S51 (2009-2013) generations
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead battery, the mechanical shift lock override will still function without power - insert tool and press firmly. The steering lock may engage on models with electronic steering locks (particularly 2009+ models), which may require a momentary jump-start to unlock steering before the vehicle can be towed safely.