🚨 2014 Subaru WRX STI: Emergency Neutral
The 2014 WRX STI automatic uses a traditional console-mounted PRNDL shifter with electronic shift lock.
🧰 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 wheels are chocked
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position if battery has any charge remaining
- Locate the shift lock override slot - it is a small rectangular slot with a plastic cover directly forward and to the left of the shifter base, near the driver's left side of the shifter surround
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or the metal key blade to remove the override cover
- Press a flathead screwdriver or similar tool firmly into the override slot while simultaneously pressing the brake pedal and moving the shifter out of Park
- If successful, shift to Neutral; if battery is completely dead and brake light switch cannot activate, you may need to apply more force on the override while manipulating the shifter
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot with cover, forward and left of the shifter base on the console
With zero electrical power
With zero electrical power, the shift lock mechanism may still engage mechanically. Use the override slot with firm pressure. If the shifter absolutely will not release, the steering column lock will also be engaged - the vehicle must be flatbedded or dollied without moving the front wheels.