🚨 2018 Toyota Crown: Emergency Neutral
The 2018 Crown Hybrid (S220 generation, Japanese market) uses an electronic shift-by-wire console-mounted shifter; gear selection is fully electronic with no direct mechanical linkage.
✓ 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.
- Ensure the hybrid system is OFF (READY light is not on).
- If you have 12V battery power: Press the Power button without pressing the brake pedal to enter accessory mode.
- With accessory power on, press the brake pedal and attempt to shift to Neutral using the shifter.
- If the shifter will not move due to a failed brake switch or shift interlock, look for a small shift lock override button or slot near the base of the shifter console, typically covered by a small cap or trim piece on the left or right side of the shifter base.
- Pry off the cap with a trim tool or flathead screwdriver, press the override button or insert the key/screwdriver into the slot, then attempt to shift to Neutral while holding the override.
- If you have NO 12V power at all, the electronic shifter will not function—the transmission cannot be placed in Neutral electronically.
- With no power, you must have the vehicle loaded onto a flatbed with all four wheels off the ground or use wheel dollies under the front wheels (hybrid drivetrain components could be damaged by flat towing).
Shift-lock override location
Look for a small capped slot or button near the shifter base on the console, typically on the driver's side or front of the shifter assembly; exact location varies by trim but is usually covered by a removable cap.
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the electronic shifter is completely non-functional and the transmission cannot be shifted. The vehicle CANNOT be shifted into Neutral mechanically. The only safe option is flatbed towing with all wheels off the ground or using wheel dollies. Do NOT attempt to flat-tow this hybrid vehicle.
⚡ EV / hybrid warning
This is a hybrid with electric drive components. NEVER flat-tow with any wheels on the ground without confirming Neutral engagement and consulting the owner's manual for tow mode. Improper towing can severely damage the hybrid transaxle and electric motors. Flatbed towing is strongly recommended.