🚨 2021 Lexus RX 450h: Emergency Neutral
The 2021 RX 450h uses a traditional center console-mounted shift lever with electronic shift-lock connected to the brake interlock system.
✓ 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 firmly
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position (push start button without brake pedal, or use mechanical key in emergency key slot under steering column cover)
- Locate the shift-lock override slot: it is a small rectangular slot with a plastic cap directly forward of the shift lever base on the left side of the shifter surround
- Use a flat-blade screwdriver or the mechanical key blade to pry off the cap
- Insert the screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, move the shift lever from P to N
- Release the override and remove the tool; the vehicle can now be moved or towed
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot with plastic cap directly forward and to the left of the shift lever base in the console trim
With zero electrical power
With completely dead 12V battery, you will need to access the mechanical key from the key fob (press release button on back of fob) and use it to turn the ignition to ACC in the emergency key slot under the lower steering column cover. The shift-lock override is purely mechanical and will work without power once you can access it. If battery is completely dead and ignition cannot be turned on, the shift-lock override will still function mechanically.
⚡ EV / hybrid warning
HYBRID WARNING: This vehicle cannot be towed with drive wheels on the ground for any distance. The hybrid transaxle contains motor-generators that will be damaged if rotated without the hybrid system active. FLATBED TRANSPORT ONLY with all four wheels off the ground, or front wheels on dolly (AWD models: flatbed mandatory). If the hybrid system is functional, you may put the vehicle in Accessory mode and shift to N for short-distance movement, but never tow on the road.