🚨 2024 Lexus IS 500: Emergency Neutral
The 2024 IS 500 uses a traditional automatic 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 vehicle is on a flat surface 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 plastic cap on the left side of the shifter base, near the front.
- Use a flathead screwdriver or key to remove the cap by gently prying it out.
- Insert the screwdriver or similar tool 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 the shifter still won't move and you have no electrical power, keep the override depressed and firmly pull the shifter toward Neutral—some mechanical resistance may be present.
- Once in Neutral, replace the cap and the vehicle can be moved or loaded.
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot with plastic cap on the left side of the shifter base, toward the front of the console
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the shift-lock override will still function mechanically. You may need to apply significant force while holding the override down to overcome residual mechanical resistance in the shift lock mechanism. The ignition does not need to be in any particular position when using the override with no power.