🚨 2022 Lexus NX 350: Emergency Neutral
The 2022 NX 350 (second generation NX) uses an electronic shifter with either a center console-mounted selector or available electronic shift-by-wire system depending on trim.
✓ 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 parking brake is firmly engaged and the vehicle is on level ground
- Press the POWER button (without brake pedal if dead battery) to attempt ACCESSORY mode - you need at least some 12V power for the electronic shifter
- If the system powers on and you have brake-pedal function, press the POWER button with brake depressed to reach IGNITION ON mode
- With IGNITION ON and brake pedal depressed, move the shifter to N position
- If the vehicle will not power on due to completely dead 12V battery, you must jump-start the 12V battery first
- The 12V battery location varies by powertrain - for the NX 350 gas model, the battery is typically in the engine compartment on the driver side
- Connect a jump pack or jumper cables to restore 12V power, then follow steps 2-4
- If the shift lock will not release even with power, locate the shift-lock override - on console shifters, look for a small cap-covered slot near the shifter base
- Remove the cap with the mechanical key from your key fob or a small flathead screwdriver
- Insert the key or screwdriver into the override slot, press down, and move the shifter to N while holding the override
- Leave the ignition in ACCESSORY or ON mode when on the flatbed to prevent the steering lock from engaging
Shift-lock override location
Near the shifter base in the center console - look for a small cap-covered slot, typically on the left or front side of the shifter surround (exact location depends on trim level and shifter type)
With zero electrical power
The 2022 NX uses a fully electronic shifter that requires 12V power to operate. With zero electrical power, you cannot shift the vehicle. You must jump-start the 12V battery using the battery in the engine bay or the underhood jump-start terminals. Even ACCESSORY mode power may be sufficient to release the shift lock and use the override if necessary.