🚨 2019 Infiniti QX50: Emergency Neutral
The 2019 QX50 (second-generation, all-new platform) uses a console-mounted electronic shifter with shift-by-wire technology.
✓ 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 and set the parking brake firmly
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position if battery has any charge remaining - the electronic shifter requires some electrical power to function normally
- If power is available: Press the brake pedal, then press the ignition button without pressing the brake to cycle to ACC or ON mode, then shift to Neutral
- If power is not available or shifter will not move: Locate the shift lock override access - look for a small rectangular cap on the left side of the shifter base or in the front left corner of the shifter surround
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or the mechanical key to remove the cap
- Insert the tool into the override slot and press down firmly while simultaneously attempting to move the shifter to Neutral
- The electronic shifter may be difficult or impossible to override with complete power loss - if resistance is met, do NOT force excessively as this is an electronic shift-by-wire system
- If the shifter cannot be moved to Neutral with zero power, the vehicle must be loaded onto a flatbed with wheels off the ground using a dolly or skates
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular cap located on the left side of the shifter base or front left corner of the shifter surround - exact location varies but should be near the driver's side of the shifter assembly
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the 2019 QX50's electronic shifter may not function even with the override tool, as it uses shift-by-wire technology that requires electrical power for the transmission control module. The mechanical override may release the shift lock but not fully engage Neutral in the transmission. If the vehicle cannot be shifted to Neutral, it must be loaded with all wheels off the ground or with the front wheels on a dolly/skates.