🚨 2021 Nissan Kicks: Emergency Neutral
The 2021 Nissan Kicks uses a conventional console-mounted CVT shifter lever with an electronic shift lock controlled by the brake pedal interlock system.
🧰 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
- Ensure the vehicle is on a level surface and parking brake is firmly engaged
- Turn the ignition to the ON position if battery power is available (do not start engine)
- Locate the shift lock release cover, a small rectangular cap on the driver's side of the shifter base assembly
- Use a flathead screwdriver or similar tool to carefully pry off the shift lock release cover
- Insert the screwdriver or a key into the release slot and press down firmly while simultaneously moving the shifter to Neutral
- If successful, the shifter will move freely to Neutral position
- Keep the shift lock override depressed until the shifter is fully in Neutral
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular cap on the driver's side of the shifter base, near the shifter button
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the shift lock override still functions mechanically. You may need a flashlight to locate the release slot. The ignition does not need to be on for the manual override to work.