🚨 2021 Lexus ES 300h: Emergency Neutral
The 2021 ES 300h uses an electronic push-button shifter with P, R, N, D buttons and a separate B (engine braking) button mounted on the center console.
✓ 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 parking brake is firmly engaged and the vehicle is on level ground
- Turn the ignition to ON (READY mode if 12V battery has power) - press the power button twice without pressing the brake pedal if the 12V battery is functional
- Press and hold the brake pedal firmly
- Press the 'N' (Neutral) button on the shifter panel
- If the shifter does not respond electronically, locate the shift lock override slot - it is a small covered slot near the shifter button assembly on the center console
- Remove the small rubber or plastic cap covering the override slot (may require a flathead screwdriver to pry gently)
- Insert a key, small flathead screwdriver, or the mechanical key from your key fob into the override slot
- While pressing the tool into the override slot, press the 'N' button - this mechanically releases the shift lock
- The transmission should now move to Neutral and the vehicle can roll
Shift-lock override location
Small covered slot adjacent to the shifter button panel on the center console, typically on the lower right side of the button assembly
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead 12V battery, you cannot activate the ignition to READY mode. The shift lock override slot still functions mechanically - use the override slot method with a tool while attempting to press the N button. The electronic shifter may not provide feedback, but the mechanical override should release the transmission lock. If this fails, the vehicle must be flatbedded. Do NOT attempt to jump-start and shift with the hybrid system active unless you are familiar with hybrid safety procedures.
⚡ EV / hybrid warning
CRITICAL HYBRID WARNING: This vehicle has a high-voltage hybrid system. If the 12V battery is functional and you can enter READY mode, the hybrid system may activate. Never work under the vehicle or near the rear transaxle area when in READY mode. For flatbed towing, ensure all wheels are OFF the ground - do NOT tow with any wheels on the ground as the hybrid transaxle can generate dangerous voltage when rotated. Consult the owner's manual towing section for proper flatbed loading procedures.