🚨 2021 Lexus UX 250h: Emergency Neutral
The 2021 UX 250h hybrid uses an electronic console-mounted shift lever with detent positions for Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive, and B-mode.
✓ 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 parking brake is firmly engaged and the vehicle is on level ground
- Press the START button twice without pressing the brake pedal to enter ACC or ON mode
- Press and hold the brake pedal firmly
- Locate the shift lock override cover—a small rectangular cap near the shifter base on the right side of the console
- Pry off the override cover carefully using a small flathead screwdriver or trim tool
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver or key into the exposed shift lock override slot
- Press down firmly on the override while simultaneously moving the shift lever to Neutral
- If the shifter does not release, verify that the brake pedal is fully depressed and retry
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be rolled or towed (see hybrid towing warnings)
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular cover on the right side of the shifter console base, approximately 1 inch from the shift lever
With zero electrical power
With completely dead 12V battery, the electronic shifter lock remains engaged even with the override tool—the solenoid requires minimal voltage to release. Jump-start the 12V battery with a jump pack or jumper cables to provide power, then use the override procedure. If jumping is not possible, the vehicle must be flatbed-towed.
⚡ EV / hybrid warning
HYBRID TOWING WARNING: The UX 250h must be towed with ALL FOUR WHEELS OFF THE GROUND (flatbed only). Towing with any wheels on the ground while in Neutral can spin the electric motors and generate uncontrolled voltage, potentially causing severe damage to the hybrid system, inverter, and battery. If you must move the vehicle a few feet onto a flatbed, Neutral is acceptable for very short distances at walking speed only. Never tow this hybrid on a dolly or with two wheels down.