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🚨 2024 Lexus NX 350: Emergency Neutral

The 2024 NX 350 uses a console-mounted electronic shift lever with a push-button P (Park) located on the end of the shifter stalk.

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

  1. Ensure the vehicle is on a level surface and set the parking brake firmly.
  2. Turn the ignition to ON (press START button twice without brake pedal) to restore electrical power to the shifter system.
  3. Press and hold the brake pedal firmly.
  4. Press the P button on the end of the shifter to release Park if engaged.
  5. Move the shifter to Neutral by pushing it upward once from the center position.
  6. If the shift lock will not release due to a failed brake-light switch, locate the shift-lock override slot—look for a small removable cap or cover on the console near the shifter base, typically forward or to the right of the shifter.
  7. Remove the cap, insert a small flathead screwdriver or key into the override slot, and press down while moving the shifter to Neutral.
  8. Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be rolled or loaded.
Shift-lock override location
Small cap-covered slot on the console near the shifter base, typically forward or to the right side of the shifter assembly.
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead 12V battery, the electronic shifter will not function and the shift-lock override will also not work. You must jump-start the vehicle or connect an external 12V power source to the battery to restore minimal electrical function, then follow the steps above. If jump-starting is not possible, the vehicle must be placed on a flatbed or dollies without shifting to Neutral.
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