🚨 2009 Toyota Tundra: Emergency Neutral
The 2009 Tundra uses a traditional column-mounted shifter with an electronic shift lock interlock.
🧰 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
- Set the parking brake firmly and chock the wheels
- Turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON position if you have any battery power
- Locate the shift lock override slot on the column shroud near the base of the shifter - there is a small rectangular cover/cap
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or the key to pry off the override cover
- Insert the screwdriver or key into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal (if you have power) and move the shifter to Neutral
- If you have no power, continue holding the override down and manually move the shifter to Neutral - it should release with firm pressure
Shift-lock override location
On the column shroud near the shifter base, typically on the right side - small rectangular cover that pries off to reveal the override slot
With zero electrical power
With zero power, the override must still be pressed. Turn the key to ACC position mechanically (no power needed for key cylinder). The shift lock should release when override is depressed even without electrical power, but may require more force to move the shifter.