🚨 2021 Toyota Raize: Emergency Neutral
The 2021 Raize hybrid uses a conventional console-mounted automatic transmission lever with electronic shift lock.
✓ 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 level ground and apply the parking brake firmly
- If any battery charge remains, press the power button twice without pressing the brake pedal to reach ACC mode
- Locate the shift lock override—a small covered slot typically located on the lower left side of the shifter base or just forward of the shifter knob
- Remove the cover cap by prying gently with a small flathead screwdriver
- Insert a screwdriver or similar narrow tool into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override mechanism down, move the shifter from P to N
- Keep holding the override if resistance is felt until the shifter fully engages Neutral
Shift-lock override location
Small capped slot on the lower left side of the shifter base, near where the shifter meets the console trim—look for a small rectangular or circular cap that can be pried off
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead 12V battery, the shift lock override is mechanical and will function without any electrical power. The hybrid system does not need to be ready or powered on. Simply use the mechanical override to release the shifter lock and move to Neutral manually.
⚡ EV / hybrid warning
WARNING: The Raize hybrid uses an electric motor and CVT. If the 12V battery is dead, the hybrid system cannot engage and the vehicle may not roll freely even in Neutral due to the electric motor's magnetic resistance. For towing, use a flatbed or trailer. If you must dolly-tow, ensure the front wheels (drive wheels) are OFF the ground. Do not flat-tow this vehicle under any circumstances as the CVT and electric motor can be damaged.