🚨 2013-2020 Subaru Outback: Emergency Neutral
The 2013-2020 Outback (fourth and fifth generation) CVT models use 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 — 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 vehicle is on a flat surface and parking brake is engaged
- Turn the ignition key or push-button start to the ACC or ON position if possible (fifth-gen 2015+ has push-button start)
- 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
- For 2013-2014: Look for a small removable cap to the right side of the shifter boot near the base
- For 2015-2020: Look for a small rectangular cap or slot access point near the base of the shifter on the right side or integrated into the console trim
- 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 near the base of the shifter; 2013-2014 typically to the right side of shifter boot; 2015-2020 may be integrated into console trim on the right side of shifter
With zero electrical power
With no 12V power, the shift lock solenoid cannot release electronically and the mechanical override must be used. On 2015+ models with push-button start, the steering lock is electronic and may require a jump-start to unlock before the vehicle can be moved. On 2013-2014 with key ignition, steering may also lock without power.