🚨 2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV: Emergency Neutral
The 2012 i-MiEV uses a small center console-mounted electronic shift selector (not a traditional lever) with positions for Drive, Eco, Neutral, Reverse, and Park.
✓ 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 12V auxiliary battery has at least some charge—the electronic shifter requires 12V power to operate
- If the 12V battery is completely dead, you must jump-start or charge the 12V auxiliary battery (located under the floor in the rear cargo area) before the shifter will respond
- Once 12V power is available, press the power button without pressing the brake to turn the vehicle to ACC or ON mode
- Press and hold the brake pedal
- Press the N (Neutral) button on the shifter
- The vehicle should now be in Neutral and can be moved or loaded onto a flatbed
With zero electrical power
CRITICAL: The i-MiEV uses an electronic shifter that absolutely requires 12V power to function. There is no mechanical shift lock override. With a completely dead 12V auxiliary battery, you CANNOT shift the vehicle. You must jump-start or charge the 12V battery first (battery access requires removing rear cargo floor panel). Once the 12V system has power, the shifter will operate normally.
⚡ EV / hybrid warning
WARNING: The i-MiEV must be transported on a flatbed truck with all wheels off the ground. DO NOT tow with any wheels on the ground—the electric motor is mechanically connected to the rear wheels and towing will generate electricity back into the system, potentially causing severe damage to the motor and power electronics. If the high-voltage system is damaged or you smell burning, do not attempt to move the vehicle—contact emergency services.