🚨 2018 Nissan Kicks: Emergency Neutral
The 2018 Nissan Kicks uses a console-mounted CVT shift lever with electronic shift lock.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — details like the exact override location may vary by trim; verify visually before prying anything.
⚠️ 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 vehicle is on a level surface and set the parking brake firmly
- Turn the ignition to the ON position using the push-button start (press without foot on brake) if possible—this may restore shift lock function if only the brake switch has failed
- Locate the shift lock override: look for a small removable cap on the left side of the shifter base assembly
- Remove the cap using a small flathead screwdriver or trim tool
- Insert the screwdriver into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, press the shifter release button and move the lever to Neutral
- Keep the override depressed until the shifter is fully engaged in Neutral
Shift-lock override location
Small capped slot on the left side of the shifter base assembly
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead 12V battery, the push-button start will not function. If you have the physical key (inside the fob), unlock the steering column per the owner's manual instructions. The shift lock override will still work mechanically. If the battery is so dead that nothing functions, the vehicle must be flatbed towed. Never tow a CVT-equipped Kicks with drive wheels on the ground.