🚨 1990 Toyota Camry: Emergency Neutral
The 1990 Camry uses a traditional column-mounted shift lever for automatic transmission models.
✓ 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 set and the vehicle is on level ground.
- Turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON position if possible (this is not required but makes the process easier).
- Locate the shift-lock override slot: look for a small rectangular slot or cap on the lower right side of the steering column shroud, near the base of the shift lever.
- If there is a cap, use a flathead screwdriver or the key blade to pry it off gently.
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver or similar tool into the override slot and press down or push in firmly (direction depends on the specific mechanism).
- While holding the override engaged, move the shift lever from Park to Neutral.
- The vehicle is now in neutral and can be pushed or loaded onto a flatbed.
Shift-lock override location
Small slot or capped opening on the lower right side of the steering column shroud, near the shift lever base
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the ignition will not turn on and the shift interlock solenoid will not be energized. The shift-lock override is purely mechanical and will still function. Simply use the override slot to release the shifter without needing to turn the key. Note that the steering wheel will be locked; you will need to manually steer or unlock the steering by connecting 12V power.