🚨 2005 Subaru Impreza: Emergency Neutral
The 2005 Impreza uses a traditional console-mounted automatic transmission lever with a button on the front of the shifter handle.
🧰 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
- Apply the parking brake firmly and chock the wheels.
- Turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON position to supply power to the shift interlock system.
- Locate the shift lock override slot—it is a small rectangular opening covered by a removable trim piece, located on the left side of the shifter base near the console.
- Use a small flat-blade screwdriver or key to pry off the trim cover over the override slot.
- Insert a small flat-blade screwdriver or similar tool into the override slot and press down firmly.
- While holding the override down, press the shifter button and move the lever to Neutral.
- If the ignition cannot be turned on due to dead battery, you may need to jump-start the 12V battery or use a portable jump pack to provide enough power to release the shift lock.
Shift-lock override location
Left side of shifter base, covered by a small rectangular trim piece
With zero electrical power
With zero electrical power, the shift interlock solenoid remains engaged. You must supply at least temporary 12V power (jump pack or jumper cables to another vehicle) to unlock the shifter, then use the override slot while power is available.