🚨 1990 Toyota Cressida: Emergency Neutral
The 1990 Cressida uses a traditional column-mounted automatic shifter with a mechanical shift lock interlock button on the shifter handle.
✓ 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
- Apply the parking brake firmly and chock the wheels.
- Turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON position if you have any battery power (this may release the shift lock automatically).
- Fully depress the brake pedal.
- Press the shift lock release button on the shifter handle (the button you normally press to shift) and move the shifter to Neutral.
- If the shift lock button will not release due to failed brake switch or no power, locate the small shift lock override slot on the steering column near the base of the shifter mechanism.
- Remove any trim cover around the column shroud if necessary to access the override.
- Insert a small flathead screwdriver or the key into the override slot and push down/in while pressing the shifter button and moving to Neutral.
- Once in Neutral, the vehicle can be pushed or towed.
Shift-lock override location
Small slot near the base of the column shifter mechanism, typically accessible by removing or lifting the lower steering column shroud trim; exact position is on the driver's side of the column.
With zero electrical power
With zero power, the steering wheel will lock if turned. You must use the mechanical shift lock override slot near the column shifter base. Insert a screwdriver into the override while pressing the shifter button to release the shifter into Neutral. The key does not need to be in any position for the override to work, but steering will remain locked.