🚨 2021 Lexus UX 200: Emergency Neutral
The 2021 UX 200 uses a conventional electronic console-mounted shift lever with an electrically controlled shift lock.
✓ 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
- Set the parking brake firmly and chock the wheels
- 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 opening covered by a cap directly forward of the shifter base on the left side of the center console
- Use a flathead screwdriver or the metal key blade to pry off the small cap covering the override slot
- With your foot on the brake (or battery disconnected), insert the screwdriver or key blade straight down into the override slot
- While holding the override down, press the shifter button and move the lever to Neutral
- If the vehicle will be towed, leave the shifter in Neutral and ensure the parking brake is released before loading onto the flatbed
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot with removable cap located forward of the shifter base on the left side of the center console, near the driver's side edge of the shifter surround
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead battery, the electronic shifter may not release even with the override. If the override slot does not allow shifting after multiple attempts, the vehicle must be loaded onto a flatbed with the drive wheels off the ground. Do NOT attempt to tow with drive wheels on the ground—this is a front-wheel-drive CVT vehicle that can suffer transmission damage if towed improperly.