🚨 2000 Lexus IS 300: Emergency Neutral
The 2000 IS 300 uses a traditional console-mounted automatic shift lever with electronic shift lock.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — details like the exact override location may vary by trim; verify visually before prying anything.
⚠️ 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 flat surface and set the parking brake firmly.
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position if possible (provides power to unlock shifter).
- Locate the shift lock override access slot: look for a small covered opening or cap near the shifter base, typically on the right side or front right of the shifter assembly.
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or similar tool to remove the override access cover if present.
- Press and hold the shift lock override button or tab inside the access opening with the screwdriver.
- While holding the override mechanism down, press the brake pedal (if power available) and move the shifter from Park to Neutral.
- If no power is available, continue holding the override and manually move the shifter to Neutral without pressing the brake.
- Release the override once in Neutral, then release the parking brake when ready to move the vehicle.
Shift-lock override location
Small access slot or covered opening near the shifter base, generally on the right or front-right side of the assembly
With zero electrical power
With zero electrical power, the mechanical shift lock override can still be accessed and used. Press and hold the override mechanism while moving the shifter to Neutral. The ignition position does not matter when using the override with no power.