🚨 2024 Lexus LS 500: Emergency Neutral
The 2024 LS 500 uses a traditional electronic console-mounted shift lever with a gated pattern and electronic shift-lock.
✓ Expert-verified by Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — master technicians, 20+ years each.
⚠️ 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 level 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, which is a small rectangular access panel on the left side of the shifter base near the 'P' position
- Use a flathead screwdriver or similar tool wrapped in cloth to carefully pry off the override access cover
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver or the key blade into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal and move the shifter out of Park into Neutral
- If the battery is completely dead, you may need to manually release the shift lock by pressing the override without brake pedal input
- Once in Neutral, release the parking brake to allow the vehicle to roll
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular access panel on the left side of the shifter base, adjacent to the 'P' park position gate
With zero electrical power
With zero power, the shift-lock override can still be accessed mechanically. Insert tool into override slot and press down while attempting to move shifter to Neutral. The electronic parking brake may require a jump start to release, or manual EPB release procedures in the owner's manual. If EPB cannot be released, vehicle must be placed on dollies or flatbed.