🚨 2011 Lexus CT 200h: Emergency Neutral
The 2011 Lexus CT 200h uses an electronic console-mounted shift lever with Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive, and B (engine braking) positions.
✓ 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 level ground and parking brake is applied
- Remove the small plastic cap on the shifter console - it is located directly to the right of the shift lever base
- Insert a flathead screwdriver, key, or similar tool into the exposed shift lock override slot
- Press down firmly on the override while simultaneously pressing the brake pedal (if any electrical power is available)
- While holding the override down, move the shift lever from Park to Neutral
- If no power is available at all, the shifter may still move to Neutral with the override depressed, though it will require more force
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be moved or loaded onto a flatbed
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular plastic cap located directly to the right side of the shift lever base on the center console
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead 12V battery, the shift lock override will still function mechanically. Press the override and apply firm pressure to move the lever to Neutral. The hybrid system will not be active, but the wheels will roll freely in Neutral. If the electronic parking brake is engaged and won't release due to no power, you may need to jump-start the 12V battery briefly to release it, or consult the owner's manual for the manual EPB release procedure (typically requires removing a rear wheel and accessing the caliper).
⚡ EV / hybrid warning
HYBRID VEHICLE WARNING: The CT 200h must be transported on a flatbed truck with all wheels off the ground. Do NOT tow this vehicle with any wheels on the ground, even in Neutral, as the electric motor is mechanically connected to the front wheels through the hybrid transaxle and can generate dangerous voltage or cause severe damage to the hybrid system. Wheel-lift or dolly towing of the front wheels is also prohibited.