🚨 2019 Lexus IS 200t: Emergency Neutral
The 2019 IS (2.0T turbo engine, sold as IS 300 in US) uses a traditional P-R-N-D console-mounted gear lever with an electronic shift-lock system.
🧰 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 parking brake is firmly set and wheels are chocked.
- 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 bottom of the shift gate.
- Use a flathead screwdriver or similar tool to remove the small plastic cover over the override slot.
- While firmly pressing the brake pedal (if power available), insert the screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down.
- While holding the override down, move the shifter from Park to Neutral.
- If no brake pressure, the override alone should allow shifter movement when pressed.
- Replace the cover after shifting to Neutral.
Shift-lock override location
Small covered slot on the left side of the shifter base, near the bottom of the shift gate
With zero electrical power
With zero battery power, you cannot turn the ignition to ACC. The shift-lock override is mechanical and should still function: remove the cover, press the override button/tab down with a tool, and move the shifter to Neutral. The override bypasses the electronic lock even without power.