🚨 2016 Lexus IS 300: Emergency Neutral
The 2016 IS 300 (third generation) uses an electronic floor-mounted console shifter with push-button operation and gear position indication on the instrument cluster.
🧰 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 parking brake is firmly engaged and wheels are chocked.
- If the battery has any charge, turn the ignition to ON mode (press Start button without foot on brake, or press twice).
- Locate the shift lock override cover - it is a small rectangular plastic cover on the center console to the right of the shifter base.
- Using a small flat-head screwdriver or trim tool, carefully pry up and remove the shift lock override cover.
- Insert a screwdriver or key into the exposed override slot and press down firmly.
- While holding the override down and with the ignition ON (if possible), press and hold the shift unlock button (if equipped on shifter) and move the shifter to N position.
- If you have zero power, you may need to rock the shifter gently while pressing the override to mechanically disengage the lock - this may require significant force.
- Once in Neutral, remove the tool and replace the override cover.
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular plastic cover on the center console to the right of the shifter base - the override slot is underneath this cover.
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead 12V battery, the electronic shifter may not display position and steering lock cannot be released. The mechanical shift lock override will still function but requires the override to be pressed while manipulating the shifter with firm force. The vehicle can only roll straight due to the locked steering column. Some electronic shifters may be very difficult to move without any power - if resistance is extreme, flatbed towing in Park may be necessary.