🚨 2019-2022 Toyota Avalon: Emergency Neutral
The 2019-2022 Avalon gas models use a traditional console-mounted P-R-N-D shifter with electronic shift lock.
✓ Expert-verified by Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — master technicians, 20+ years each.
⚠️ 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 the vehicle is on level ground or properly chocked.
- Locate the shift lock override slot on the console—it is a small rectangular slot with a removable cap, positioned directly to the left of the shifter base near the driver's side.
- Remove the cap by prying it up gently with a flat-blade screwdriver or your fingernail.
- Insert a small flat-blade screwdriver, key, or similar tool into the override slot and press down firmly.
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal (if any 12V power remains) or simply pull the shifter out of Park into Neutral.
- If you cannot shift with the tool alone, try turning the ignition to ACC or ON (if possible) while holding the override and applying the brake.
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can roll freely—maintain control and secure it immediately.
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot with removable cap located directly to the left of the shifter base, near the driver's side of the console.
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead 12V battery, the shift lock override slot still functions mechanically. Insert the tool firmly and apply steady downward pressure while attempting to move the shifter. You may need to rock the shifter slightly or press harder than expected. The mechanical override is designed to work without electrical power, but it may require significant force.