🚨 2011 Subaru Forester XT: Emergency Neutral
The 2011 Forester XT uses a center-console mounted shifter lever for its 4-speed automatic transmission with an electronic shift-lock solenoid.
✓ 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 parking brake is fully engaged and the vehicle is on level ground or properly chocked.
- Turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON position if battery power is available.
- Locate the shift-lock override access - there is a small rectangular or circular cap on the console trim near the shifter base, typically to the left or right side.
- Use a flat-blade screwdriver or similar tool to carefully pry off the override access cover.
- Insert the screwdriver or a rigid tool into the override slot and press down firmly while simultaneously pressing the brake pedal (if power is available) and moving the shifter out of Park.
- If no power is available, continue to hold the override down and use steady force to move the shifter - you may need to rock the steering wheel slightly to relieve pressure on the parking pawl.
- Shift into Neutral, then release the override tool.
- The vehicle can now be moved or loaded onto a flatbed.
Shift-lock override location
Small access cover (rectangular or circular) located on the console trim adjacent to the shifter base; check both left and right sides of the shifter
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, you cannot turn the ignition to ACC position. Use the shift-lock override slot as described above - press down firmly in the override slot while applying steady force to move the shifter out of Park. You may need to rock the steering wheel back and forth to relieve tension on the steering lock and parking pawl. The override mechanically releases the shift-lock mechanism independent of electrical power.