🚨 2002 Toyota 4Runner: Emergency Neutral
The 2002 4Runner uses a traditional column-mounted shift lever with a mechanical shift-lock solenoid integrated into the column shroud.
🧰 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
- Set the parking brake firmly and chock the wheels
- Turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON position if battery has any charge
- Locate the small rectangular shift-lock override slot on the left side of the steering column shroud, just above and slightly behind the shift lever base
- Remove the small plastic cover cap over the override slot (may require a flathead screwdriver to pry gently)
- Insert a flathead screwdriver or the key blade into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal and move the shifter to Neutral
- If the shifter still won't move, maintain pressure on the override and rock the steering wheel slightly while attempting to shift
Shift-lock override location
Left side of the steering column shroud, just above and slightly behind the shift lever base, covered by a small rectangular plastic cap
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the ignition will not turn to ACC. Use a jump box or jump cables to provide minimal power to the ignition circuit, then proceed with the override procedure. The mechanical override itself does not require power, but you need ignition power to release the steering lock and typically to disengage the park pawl fully.