🚨 2010 Infiniti QX56: Emergency Neutral
The 2010 QX56 uses a traditional column-mounted shift lever with electronic shift lock.
✓ 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 apply the parking brake firmly
- Turn the ignition key to ACC or ON position (battery power needed for shift lock release)
- Press and hold the brake pedal
- Locate the shift lock override slot - it is a small rectangular slot on the left side of the column shroud near the base of the shift lever
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver or the metal key blade into the override slot
- Press the override mechanism down while simultaneously moving the shift lever to Neutral
- Remove the tool and verify the shifter remains in Neutral
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot on the left side of the steering column shroud near the shift lever base
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, you cannot release the electronic shift lock. The column shroud would need removal to manually manipulate the shift lock solenoid - this requires disassembly and is not practical roadside. Jump-starting or connecting external 12V power to move the battery terminals is the only viable option to get ignition power for the override to function.