🚨 2024 Subaru Impreza: Emergency Neutral
The 2024 Impreza (sixth generation, redesigned platform) CVT uses a console-mounted shift lever with electronic shift lock and a physical override release.
🧰 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 parking brake is firmly engaged and the vehicle is on level ground or properly chocked.
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position if battery power is available (this may allow normal shifting if only the brake switch has failed).
- If the shifter will not release from Park, locate the shift lock override—look for a small covered slot or panel on the shifter console, typically on the driver's side of the shifter base.
- Remove the small plastic cap or cover (you may need a small flathead screwdriver or trim tool to pry it out).
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver, key, or similar thin tool into the override slot and press down firmly.
- While holding the override down, press the shifter button and move the shifter to Neutral.
- Remove the tool and replace the cap once the vehicle is in Neutral.
- The vehicle can now be moved or towed.
Shift-lock override location
Small covered slot near the shifter base on the driver's side of the center console (exact location may vary slightly with the redesigned interior).
With zero electrical power
With zero electrical power, the mechanical shift lock override will still function. Use the override slot as described—no battery power is required to physically release the shifter mechanism. You will not have any dash indicators, but the shifter will move to Neutral mechanically.