🚨 2006 Lexus ES 300: Emergency Neutral
The 2006 ES 300 does not exist—Lexus discontinued the ES 300 nameplate after 2003 (returning briefly for 2005 only as the final XV30 year before the 2007 ES 350 launch).
✓ 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
- This model designation is incorrect. The ES 300 was not produced in 2006.
- If you have a 2006 Lexus ES, it would be an ES 330 (the model available from 2004-2006 in the XV30 generation).
- For a 2006 ES 330: Set the parking brake firmly.
- Turn ignition to ACC or ON if any battery power remains.
- Locate the shift-lock override cover—a small rectangular cover to the right of the shifter base.
- Remove the cover with a flathead screwdriver.
- Insert the screwdriver into the override slot and press down while moving the shifter to Neutral.
Shift-lock override location
Not applicable—2006 ES 300 does not exist. For 2006 ES 330: small rectangular cover to the right of shifter base on center console
With zero electrical power
Model year/name combination is invalid. If you have a 2006 ES 330, use the mechanical override slot (under cover to right of shifter) with no power by inserting a tool and pressing down while shifting to Neutral.