🚨 2022 Toyota Venza: Emergency Neutral
The 2022 Venza uses a conventional console-mounted shift lever with electronic shift lock and an override release slot.
✓ 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 a level surface and set the parking brake firmly.
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position if 12V power is available (press start button twice without brake pedal).
- Locate the shift lock override slot: it is a small rectangular opening with a cover cap located on the left side of the shifter base, toward the driver's side.
- Remove the cover cap by prying it gently with a flathead screwdriver or your fingernail.
- Insert a flathead screwdriver, key, or similar thin tool into the override slot and press down firmly.
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal (if brake-light switch works) or maintain pressure on the override, then move the shifter to Neutral.
- If moving to a flatbed, you may shift to Neutral using this method, but DO NOT tow with drive wheels on the ground.
- Once in Neutral, release the parking brake only when ready to load or push the vehicle.
Shift-lock override location
Left side of the shifter base, small rectangular slot with removable cover cap
With zero electrical power
With no 12V power, the hybrid system cannot initialize and the shift lock remains engaged. The mechanical override MUST be used: remove the cover cap on the left side of the shifter base and insert a tool into the slot while moving the shifter to Neutral. You will NOT be able to turn on accessory mode, so the override is your only option. Steering will be locked; you may need to rock the steering wheel while turning the ignition to ACC to unlock it manually.
⚡ EV / hybrid warning
The Venza is a hybrid with AWD electric rear motor. NEVER tow with any wheels on the ground — flatbed or trailer ONLY. Even in Neutral, towing can destroy the hybrid transaxle and electric motor. If the 12V battery is dead, the hybrid system will not enter any 'tow mode' — the vehicle must be loaded onto a flatbed using the mechanical shift override.