🚨 2017 Mazda Mazda2: Emergency Neutral
The 2017 Mazda2 (also sold as Scion iA/Toyota Yaris iA) uses a center-console mounted automatic shifter with electronic 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
- Ensure parking brake is firmly engaged and vehicle is on level ground
- Turn ignition to ACC or ON position if battery has any charge remaining
- Locate the shift lock override access: look for a small cap or slot near the shifter base on the console, typically to the left or forward-left of the shifter
- Use a flathead screwdriver or key to remove the cap if present
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver or similar tool into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal (if power available) and move the shifter to Neutral
- If no power available, continue holding override down while manually moving shifter to Neutral position
- Keep tool inserted if necessary to maintain Neutral position during vehicle movement
- Once vehicle is repositioned, return shifter to Park before removing tool
Shift-lock override location
Small slot or capped opening near the shifter base on the center console, typically to the left or forward-left side of the shifter lever
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the mechanical shift lock override still functions. Insert tool into override slot and press down while manually moving shifter to Neutral. The override bypasses the electronic solenoid. Without power, you may need slightly more force to move the shifter, but it will release.