🚨 1997 Toyota Paseo: Emergency Neutral
The 1997 Paseo uses a conventional floor-mounted automatic shifter with a thumb-button release on the front of the shift lever handle.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — details like the exact override location may vary by trim; verify visually before prying anything.
⚠️ 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
- Set the parking brake firmly and chock the wheels.
- Turn the ignition key to ACC or ON position (if battery has any charge).
- Locate the shift lock override slot: it is a small covered opening typically found on the right side of the shifter base, near where the console trim meets the shifter boot.
- Remove the small plastic cap or cover over the override slot using a flat-blade screwdriver or your fingernail.
- Insert a flat-blade screwdriver, key, or similar thin tool into the override slot and press down firmly.
- While holding the override down, press the thumb button on the shifter and move the shifter to Neutral.
- If you need to move the vehicle onto a flatbed, you may shift to Neutral using this method; the vehicle can roll freely.
Shift-lock override location
Right side of shifter base near the console trim, under a small plastic cap.
With zero electrical power
With zero electrical power, the shift lock override will still function mechanically. Follow the same override procedure—no ignition power is required to release the shifter mechanically. Ensure parking brake is set and wheels are chocked before attempting.