🚨 2026 Lexus ES 250 AWD: Emergency Neutral
The 2026 ES 250 AWD uses an electronic console-mounted shift lever with a shift-lock button on the shifter handle.
✓ 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 the parking brake is firmly engaged.
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position if battery has any charge remaining.
- Press and hold the brake pedal firmly.
- Press the shift-lock override button (small square button near the shifter base, typically covered by a removable cap) using a small flathead screwdriver or similar tool while simultaneously moving the shifter to Neutral.
- If the shift-lock button does not release the shifter, locate the manual shift-lock override slot near the base of the shifter console (check for a small rectangular cover directly adjacent to the shifter base on the right side).
- Remove the cover and insert a flathead screwdriver or key into the override slot while moving the shifter to Neutral.
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be moved or loaded.
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular cover near the shifter base on the console, typically to the right side of the shifter; exact location may vary—consult owner's manual if not immediately visible
With zero electrical power
With zero electrical power, you must use the mechanical shift-lock override slot. The electronic shifter lock will not release without using the manual override. Insert a tool into the override slot (under the small cover near shifter base) and physically push/hold while moving the shifter to Neutral. This bypasses all electronic interlocks.