🚨 2005 Scion xA: Emergency Neutral
The 2005 Scion xA uses a floor-mounted automatic transmission shifter with mechanical 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 flat surface and the parking brake is firmly engaged
- Turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON position if possible
- Firmly depress and hold the brake pedal
- Locate the small shift lock override cover on the console near the shifter base (typically on the driver's side or forward of the shifter)
- Use a flathead screwdriver or similar tool to carefully pry off the override cover
- While holding the brake pedal, insert the screwdriver into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, press the shifter button and move the shifter to Neutral
- Release the override and remove the tool
- Replace the override cover after the vehicle is moved
Shift-lock override location
Small cover near the shifter base on the center console, typically on the driver's side of the shifter assembly
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery: The first-generation xA uses a mechanical shift lock system. You can usually access the shift lock override without any electrical power by removing the override cover and pressing the mechanical release. However, the ignition key must be inserted and turned to at least the ACC position (this is mechanical, not electrical). If the steering lock prevents key insertion, you may need to apply slight steering wheel pressure while turning the key.