🚨 2013 Toyota Tacoma: Emergency Neutral
The 2013 Tacoma uses a traditional console-mounted shift lever with a push-button release on the shifter handle.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — cross-check against your owner’s manual when possible.
⚠️ 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 parking brake is firmly set and wheels are chocked.
- Turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON position if battery has any charge remaining.
- Locate the shift lock override slot—it is a small rectangular slot with a plastic cap on the left side of the shifter base, near where the lever meets the console.
- Use a flathead screwdriver or the metal key blade to remove the cap covering the override slot.
- Insert the screwdriver or key firmly into the override slot and press down while simultaneously pressing the shifter button and moving the lever to Neutral.
- If successful, the shifter will release and move freely to Neutral; keep firm pressure on the override while shifting.
Shift-lock override location
Left side of shifter base near the console, under a small rectangular plastic cap
With zero electrical power
With zero electrical power, the override slot method still works mechanically—no battery power is required to physically release the shift lock using the manual override. You may need a flashlight to locate the slot in a dark environment.