🚨 2020 Lexus RX 350L: Emergency Neutral
The 2020 RX 350L uses a traditional console-mounted automatic transmission lever with electronic shift lock.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — cross-check against your owner’s manual when possible.
⚠️ 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 set the parking brake firmly
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position if battery has any charge remaining
- Locate the shift lock override slot - it is a small rectangular cover on the driver's side of the shifter base console
- Use a flathead screwdriver or the metal key to pry off the small override cover
- Insert the key or screwdriver into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal (if power available) and move the shifter to Neutral
- If no brake pedal resistance, simply move the shifter while holding override down
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular cover on the driver's side (left side) of the shifter base console, adjacent to the shift lever base
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the override slot still functions mechanically. Use the physical key to press the override mechanism down while moving the shifter - no electrical power is needed for the mechanical override to release the shift lock. The steering wheel will remain locked, so the vehicle must be towed with front wheels off the ground or on a flatbed.