🚨 2020 Lexus NX 300: Emergency Neutral
The 2020 NX 300 uses an electronic console-mounted shifter lever with shift-by-wire technology and a mechanical shift-lock override.
✓ 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 flat surface and parking brake is firmly engaged
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position if battery has any charge remaining
- Locate the shift-lock override cover on the left side of the shifter base, it is a small rectangular panel
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or the mechanical key to carefully pry off the override cover
- Insert the screwdriver or key into the override slot revealed beneath the cover
- Press and hold the override down firmly
- While holding the override, press the brake pedal and move the shifter rearward to Neutral position
- If no electrical power is available, continue holding override while moving shifter to Neutral
Shift-lock override location
Left side of the shifter base console, under a small removable rectangular cover panel
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead battery, the shift-lock override is still mechanical and functional. Remove the override cover, insert key or screwdriver, press down and shift to Neutral. Note that steering wheel will remain locked. The vehicle should be towed on a flatbed or with front wheels raised to avoid damage to the CVT transmission.