🚨 2017 Nissan Maxima: Emergency Neutral
The 2017 Maxima (eighth generation) uses a console-mounted monostable CVT shift lever with push-button start and 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 the vehicle is on level ground and apply the parking brake fully.
- Attempt to press the brake pedal and push the START button twice (without pressing the brake on the second press) to enter ACC or ON mode if battery power is available—this may allow normal shift lock release.
- If the shift lock does not release, locate the shift lock override—there is a small rectangular slot with a removable cover cap on the right side of the shifter base (opposite the driver, toward the center console).
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or similar tool to pry off the cover cap.
- Insert the tool into the override slot and press down firmly while simultaneously moving the shift lever to Neutral.
- The monostable shifter will spring back to center position, but the transmission should now be in Neutral.
- Verify Neutral by attempting to push the vehicle slightly or checking the instrument cluster if any residual power exists.
Shift-lock override location
Right side of the shifter base (toward the center console), covered by a small rectangular plastic cap.
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the push-button start will not function and the electronic shift lock cannot release normally. Use the mechanical shift lock override slot as described. The instrument cluster will be dark, so verify Neutral mechanically by attempting to roll the vehicle slightly. The electronic parking brake (if equipped on this trim) may remain engaged without power—check if the manual release procedure for the EPB is required.