🚨 2019 Toyota 86: Emergency Neutral
The 2019 Toyota 86 automatic uses a conventional console-mounted automatic shifter with a traditional PRNDL gate and 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 set and wheels are chocked
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position if possible (battery permitting)
- Press and hold the brake pedal firmly
- Press the shift lock override button while pulling the shifter out of Park toward Neutral
- If no electrical power, locate the shift lock override slot near the shifter
- Remove the small cover/cap on the left side of the shifter base (driver's side of the shifter assembly)
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver or the key blade into the override slot
- Press down on the override release while pulling the shifter toward Neutral - you do NOT need to press the brake with the override engaged
- The shifter should release from Park; move it to Neutral
Shift-lock override location
The shift lock override slot is located on the left side of the shifter base, covered by a small rectangular cap that pries off. The slot accepts a small screwdriver or key blade.
With zero electrical power
With no electrical power, use the mechanical shift lock override slot on the left side of the shifter base. Remove the cover cap, insert a screwdriver or key, press down, and shift to Neutral without needing the brake pedal or ignition power.