🚨 2017 Lexus CT 200h: Emergency Neutral
The 2017 CT 200h uses an electronic shift-by-wire console-mounted lever with a button on the side for gear selection.
✓ 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 level surface and apply the parking brake firmly.
- Press and hold the brake pedal.
- If the hybrid system is functional, press the POWER button twice without pressing the brake pedal to enter accessory mode—this may restore shift-lock function.
- If the shift lever remains locked, locate the shift-lock override slot: it is a small rectangular opening with a cover cap on the left side of the shifter base, near the driver's side.
- Use a flathead screwdriver or similar tool to carefully pry off the cover cap.
- Insert the screwdriver into the override slot and press down firmly while simultaneously pulling the shift lever toward you to the N position.
- Keep the screwdriver depressed until the lever is fully in Neutral.
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be moved or pushed.
Shift-lock override location
Left side of the shifter base, small rectangular slot with a cover cap.
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead 12V battery, the hybrid system will not power on. You must use the shift-lock override to manually release the shifter into Neutral. The steering wheel will remain locked, so the vehicle must be towed on a flatbed or dollies with the front wheels off the ground.
⚡ EV / hybrid warning
The CT 200h is a hybrid with a complex HV battery and electric drive system. NEVER tow with all four wheels on the ground for any distance, as this can spin the motor-generators and cause severe damage to the transaxle and hybrid system. Always use a flatbed or tow dolly with the front wheels raised. If the vehicle must be moved a very short distance (a few feet onto a flatbed), Neutral is safe, but do not exceed walking speed and avoid extended rolling.