🚨 2024 Lexus NX 450h+: Emergency Neutral
The 2024 NX 450h+ uses an electronic shift-by-wire system with a small console-mounted lever that returns to center after each selection.
✓ 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 fully.
- Locate the shift lock override slot—it is a small covered opening on the right side of the shifter base on the center console.
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or the metal key blade to pry off the small plastic cap covering the override slot.
- Insert the key blade or screwdriver into the override slot and press down firmly while simultaneously moving the shifter to N.
- If the hybrid system is completely dead (no Ready mode possible), you MUST use tow mode: with the brake depressed and power on (even if not in Ready), move the shifter to N and the transmission will mechanically disengage for towing.
- If no 12V power at all, the electronic shifter will not function—the override only works with some electrical power present.
Shift-lock override location
Small covered slot on the right side of the shifter base on the center console.
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the electronic shifter is completely inoperable and the shift-lock override will not function. The vehicle cannot be placed in neutral electronically. Flatbed towing with all wheels off the ground is required—do NOT attempt to tow with any wheels on the ground as the transmission remains in Park and will cause severe damage.
⚡ EV / hybrid warning
CRITICAL: This is a plug-in hybrid with electronic transmission control. If the hybrid system cannot enter Ready mode, tow mode neutral is available only if 12V power is present. With complete electrical failure, ONLY flatbed towing is safe—the transmission cannot be disengaged and any wheel contact will destroy the transaxle. Do not attempt to push, dolly-tow, or flat-tow this vehicle.