🚨 2024 Toyota 4Runner: Emergency Neutral
The 2024 4Runner uses a traditional console-mounted PRNDL shifter with electronic shift lock controlled by the brake-light switch.
🧰 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 to ACC or ON position if battery has any charge (to unlock steering)
- Locate the shift lock override slot - it is a small rectangular slot with a plastic cap cover on the left side of the shifter base, near the driver's side
- Use a flathead screwdriver or key to pry off the small plastic cap covering the override slot
- Press down firmly on the override release with a screwdriver or similar tool while maintaining pressure
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal (even with dead switch) and move the shifter to Neutral
- If the shifter will not move, ensure you are pressing deep enough into the override slot - you should feel a mechanical tab being depressed
Shift-lock override location
Left side of shifter base, small rectangular slot with removable plastic cap, approximately 1 inch forward of the shifter button
With zero electrical power
With complete power loss, the steering wheel will be locked. You may need to rock the steering wheel while turning the key to ACC to unlock it. The shift lock override is purely mechanical and does not require any electrical power to function. If towing with all four wheels down, ensure transfer case is in Neutral per owner's manual (requires running engine for 4WD models).