🚨 2016 Mazda CX-5: Emergency Neutral
The 2016 CX-5 (first generation, KE series) uses a traditional console-mounted automatic transmission lever with electronic shift lock.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — cross-check against your owner’s manual when possible.
⚠️ 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
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position if battery has any charge remaining
- Press and hold the brake pedal firmly
- Locate the shift lock override slot - it is a small rectangular opening with a plastic cover on the left side of the shifter base, near the bottom of the shifter console trim
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or the key blade to remove the plastic cover cap
- Insert the screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, press the shifter button and move the shifter to Neutral
- If the steering wheel is locked and you cannot turn the key, rock the steering wheel left and right while turning the key to ACC
Shift-lock override location
Left side of shifter base, small rectangular slot with removable plastic cover cap
With zero electrical power
With zero power, the key will not turn in the ignition. You must use the shift lock override: remove the cover cap on the left side of the shifter base, press the override down with a tool, then manually move the shifter to Neutral without electrical power. The override mechanically releases the shift lock pawl. You may need to rock the vehicle slightly if the parking pawl is under load.