🚨 2024 Lexus TX 350: Emergency Neutral
The 2024 TX 350 uses an electronic monostable (spring-return) shifter on the center console that returns to center position 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 set the parking brake electronically if possible (press and hold the P button)
- If the 12V battery has any charge, press the brake pedal and the Power button to enter ACC or ON mode without starting the engine
- With power available: press the brake pedal firmly and tap the shifter forward once to select Neutral—the dash display should confirm N
- If there is no 12V power or the shifter is non-responsive, locate the shift lock override access panel: look for a small rectangular trim piece on the left side of the shifter base, forward of the cupholder area
- Carefully pry off this trim cover using a plastic trim tool or flathead screwdriver wrapped in tape
- Inside you should find a small button or tab—press or pull this override mechanism
- While holding the override, attempt to tap the shifter forward into Neutral position
- If the electronic shifter remains completely unresponsive with no power, the transmission may stay in Park and the vehicle will require flatbed transport
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular trim cover on the left side of the shifter base (forward of the cupholder); the override button or tab is inside this access panel
With zero electrical power
The TX uses an electronic shift-by-wire system. With absolutely zero 12V power, the shifter electronics will not function and the transmission will likely remain in Park. The shift lock override may allow mechanical bypass in some conditions, but this vehicle should be treated as flatbed-only if completely dead. Do not attempt to tow with wheels on the ground if the shifter cannot be confirmed in Neutral.