🚨 2013 Subaru Outback: Emergency Neutral
The 2013 Outback CVT uses a console-mounted shift lever with electronic shift lock and a button on the shifter handle.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — cross-check against your owner’s manual when possible.
⚠️ 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 parking brake is engaged
- Turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON position if possible
- Press and hold the brake pedal firmly
- Press the shifter button and move to Neutral
- If ignition cannot be turned on (dead battery), locate the shift lock override
- Look for a small rectangular or square cap/cover near the base of the shifter, typically to the right side of the shifter boot
- Pry off the cap carefully with a flathead screwdriver or trim tool
- Insert a screwdriver, key, or similar tool into the exposed override slot
- Press down firmly on the override while simultaneously pressing the shifter button
- Move the shifter to Neutral while holding the override
- Release the override and replace the cap
Shift-lock override location
Small removable cap to the right side of the shifter boot near the base; the override slot is directly underneath
With zero electrical power
With no 12V power, the shift lock solenoid cannot release electronically. The mechanical override must be used. The steering lock may also engage; if you cannot turn the steering wheel, a momentary jump-start may be necessary to release the steering lock before towing.