🚨 2009 Lexus GS 350: Emergency Neutral
The 2009 GS 350 uses a traditional gated console-mounted automatic shifter with electronic shift lock.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — cross-check against your owner’s manual when possible.
⚠️ 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 set the parking brake firmly
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position if battery has any charge remaining
- Locate the shift lock override slot - it is a small covered opening on the left side of the shifter base, near the P position
- Remove the small rectangular cover cap by prying gently with a flat-blade screwdriver or similar tool
- Insert a small flat-blade screwdriver, key, or similar tool into the override slot
- Press down firmly on the override while simultaneously pressing the brake pedal (if power available) and moving the shifter out of Park
- If successful, shift to Neutral and release the parking brake when ready to move the vehicle
Shift-lock override location
Small covered slot on the left side of the shifter base console, adjacent to the P position gate
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the shift lock override will still function mechanically. You do not need electrical power to use the override - simply remove the cover, insert tool into the slot, press down firmly, and shift to Neutral. The ignition does not need to be in any position. However, without power the steering will be locked, making the vehicle difficult to steer onto a flatbed.