🚨 2010 Subaru Impreza: Emergency Neutral
The 2010 Impreza CVT uses a traditional console-mounted shift lever with a button on the front of the handle and a shift-lock mechanism integrated into the center console.
🧰 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 to the ACC or ON position if the battery has any charge remaining.
- Locate the shift-lock override slot: it is a small rectangular opening covered by a removable cap, typically located on the left side of the shifter base near the 'P' position on the console.
- Use a flat-head screwdriver or the metal key blade to carefully pry off the small cap covering the override slot.
- Insert the screwdriver or key blade fully into the override slot while simultaneously pressing the brake pedal (if power is available) and pressing the shifter button.
- While holding the override down, move the shifter from Park to Neutral.
- If the battery is completely dead, you may need to apply firm pressure on the override while manipulating the shifter—the mechanism is mechanical and should release without power.
Shift-lock override location
Left side of the shifter base near the 'P' position, under a removable cap
With zero electrical power
The shift-lock override is mechanical and works without power. With zero 12V, the steering will be locked; you may need to rock the steering wheel while turning the key to ACC to unlock it before attempting to shift. If the key won't turn at all, the shifter override will still work but steering will remain locked—inform the tow operator.