🚨 2026 Lexus IS 300: Emergency Neutral
The 2026 IS 300 uses a traditional console-mounted automatic transmission 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 level ground and apply 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 rectangular opening with a cover cap on the left side of the shifter base, near the driver's side.
- Use a flathead screwdriver or the metal key blade to pry off the small cover cap.
- Insert the key blade or small flathead screwdriver into the override slot and press down firmly.
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal (if possible) and move the shifter to Neutral.
- If successful, the vehicle can now roll freely - use wheel chocks before releasing the parking brake.
Shift-lock override location
Left side of shifter base (driver's side), small rectangular slot with removable cover cap
With zero electrical power
With completely dead 12V battery, the shift-lock override will still function mechanically. You do not need power to use the override slot. However, you may need to manually unlock the driver's door with the physical key first. The override bypass is purely mechanical.