🚨 1993 Lexus ES 300: Emergency Neutral
The 1993 ES 300 uses a traditional column-mounted automatic shifter with a mechanical shift interlock system.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — details like the exact override location may vary by trim; verify visually before prying anything.
⚠️ 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
- Apply the parking brake firmly and chock the wheels
- Turn the ignition key to ACC or ON position if possible (this may restore shift interlock function)
- Locate the shift lock override slot on the steering column - it is a small covered opening near the base of the shifter stalk, typically on the right side
- Remove the small plastic cover cap from the override slot using a small flathead screwdriver or your fingernail
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver, ignition key, or similar tool into the override slot
- Press down firmly on the override mechanism while simultaneously pressing the shifter release button and moving the shifter to Neutral
- Keep the tool pressed in the override slot until the shifter is fully in Neutral position
Shift-lock override location
Small covered slot near the base of the column shifter stalk on the right side, where the stalk meets the steering column
With zero electrical power
With zero electrical power, the mechanical override will still function. You may need to manually turn the steering wheel lock by rotating the key in the ignition cylinder to ACC position, which requires no battery power. The override mechanism is purely mechanical on this generation.