🚨 2013-2024 Lexus ES 300h: Emergency Neutral
The 2013-2024 ES 300h (6th and 7th generation) uses an electronic console-mounted shift lever; 7th gen (2019-2024) has a slightly refined shifter design but similar override mechanism.
✓ 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
- Apply the parking brake firmly.
- Ensure the hybrid system is in OFF mode (not READY).
- If the 12V auxiliary battery has any remaining charge, press the POWER button to ACC mode without pressing the brake.
- Locate the shift-lock override access: a small rectangular or square cover on the right side of the shifter base (6th gen: 2013-2018) or near the shifter base on the console (7th gen: 2019-2024).
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or plastic trim tool to carefully remove the override cover.
- If power is available, press and hold the brake pedal.
- Insert a screwdriver or key into the shift-lock override slot revealed under the cover.
- While pressing down on the override mechanism, move the shift lever to Neutral.
- Maintain pressure on the override until the shifter is completely engaged in Neutral.
Shift-lock override location
Small cover on the right side of the shifter base on center console (2013-2018 models); on 2019-2024 models, similar location near shifter base—check immediately adjacent to the right side of the shifter
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V auxiliary battery power, the hybrid system will not activate and the electronic shifter lock remains engaged. Use the mechanical override: remove the small cover near the shifter base (right side), insert a tool into the override slot, and press down firmly while moving the shifter to Neutral. This mechanical override bypasses all electronic locks. WARNING: The electronic parking brake (EPB) may remain locked with no 12V power—if EPB will not release, you must load the vehicle onto a flatbed using wheel dollies or by accessing the manual EPB release on the rear calipers.
⚡ EV / hybrid warning
HYBRID CRITICAL: The ES 300h uses an electronically controlled CVT with electric drive motors. Neutral position is ONLY for short-distance emergency movement (loading onto flatbed, moving out of traffic). NEVER tow the ES 300h with any wheels on the ground for any distance—this will cause severe damage to the hybrid transaxle and electric motors. ALWAYS use a flatbed with all four wheels completely off the ground. If the vehicle must be moved and the EPB will not release due to battery failure, the rear brake calipers have manual release procedures (requires accessing calipers and turning release screws)—consult the emergency procedures section of the owner's manual or use a flatbed with wheel dollies.