🚨 2024 Lexus RX 350: Emergency Neutral
The 2024 RX 350 uses an electronic shifter with a small gear selector on the center console (push-button or short lever 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 vehicle is on a level surface and apply the parking brake if it engages.
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position (press start button twice without brake pedal).
- Locate the shift lock override: a small rectangular cover near the base of the shifter on the console.
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or similar tool to carefully pry off the shift lock override cover.
- Insert the screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down firmly while attempting to move the shifter to Neutral.
- If the vehicle has sufficient 12V power, the shift-by-wire system should allow the shift to Neutral.
- If successful, release the parking brake (if applied) and the vehicle can now roll.
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular cover near the base of the electronic shifter on the center console
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the electronic shift-by-wire system will not function even with the override. You must jump-start the 12V battery (located in the engine bay) to gain enough power to shift to Neutral. A small jump pack or donor vehicle is required. Once minimal power is restored, use the override procedure above.