🚨 2024 Lexus RZ 450e: Emergency Neutral
The 2024 RZ 450e uses a compact electronic monostable (self-returning) shifter on the center console that springs back 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 firmly
- Attempt to power on the vehicle to READY mode (press START with brake pedal depressed, or use jump-pack on 12V battery if dead)
- If you can achieve READY mode, simply push the shifter forward briefly to select N (Neutral)—the shifter will return to center but the display will show N
- If the 12V battery is completely dead and you cannot get any power, locate the shift lock override access
- The override is typically accessed by removing a small cover panel near the base of the shifter on the center console (exact location may be lower right or front of shifter base)
- Use the metal key from your fob or a flathead screwdriver to pry off the override cap
- Insert the key straight into the override slot and hold it in the release position
- While holding the override, attempt to push the shifter forward to N
- Note: Even with override, the electronic shifter may not function without any 12V power—you may need to jump the battery
Shift-lock override location
Under a small removable cap near the base of the monostable shifter assembly on the center console—check lower right or front side of shifter base
With zero electrical power
With completely dead 12V battery, this electronic monostable shifter is extremely difficult to override mechanically. You will almost certainly need to jump the 12V battery (located under the hood) to get at least ACC power for the shifter to respond. If jumping is impossible, the vehicle MUST be transported on a flatbed with all wheels off the ground.
⚡ EV / hybrid warning
ELECTRIC VEHICLE WARNING: The RZ 450e is a battery-electric vehicle with permanent-magnet motors driving all four wheels. NEVER tow this vehicle with any wheels on the ground—this will generate electricity back into the system and cause severe damage to the electric drive units and battery. FLATBED ONLY. Even in N, the motors can generate current if wheels rotate. Consult the owner's manual Emergency Towing section before transport.