🚨 2025 Toyota Camry: Emergency Neutral
The 2025 Camry Hybrid uses a conventional console-mounted P-R-N-D-B shift lever with electronic shift lock, identical to the 2024 redesign.
✓ 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 vehicle is on a level surface and apply the parking brake firmly.
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position if battery has any charge remaining.
- Press and hold the brake pedal firmly.
- Locate the shift lock override slot: it is a small rectangular slot with a cover cap located on the left side of the shifter base, near the console trim.
- Use a flathead screwdriver or the metal key blade to pry off the small cover cap.
- Insert the screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down firmly while simultaneously pulling the shifter out of Park toward Neutral.
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can roll freely—maintain brake pressure or have wheel chocks in place.
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot with removable cap on the left side of the shifter base, adjacent to the console trim.
With zero electrical power
With completely dead 12V battery, the electronic shifter will not respond even with the override slot. You must jump-start the 12V battery (located in the engine bay) to at least ACC power, then use the shift lock override. If jump-starting is impossible, the vehicle must be placed on a flatbed with wheel dollies—do NOT attempt to flatbed-tow with drive wheels on the ground.
⚡ EV / hybrid warning
This is a hybrid vehicle. The hybrid system must be OFF (not in READY mode) before towing. Even in Neutral, if the hybrid system is active, the electric motor may engage. For flatbed loading, ensure the POWER button is fully OFF. Never tow with rear wheels on the ground for more than minimal distances—transmission damage may occur. Flatbed transport is strongly recommended.