🚨 2012 Toyota Yaris: Emergency Neutral
The 2012 Toyota Yaris (redesigned second generation) uses a floor-mounted console shifter with electronic shift lock.
🧰 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
- Ensure the parking brake is firmly engaged
- Turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON position (if battery has any charge)
- Locate the shift lock override access—look for a small cover near the shifter base on the driver's side
- Remove the cover cap using a flathead screwdriver or your fingernail
- Insert a flathead screwdriver, key, or similar tool into the override slot
- Press down firmly on the override while pulling the shifter release button and moving the shifter from P to N
- Keep your foot OFF the brake pedal during this procedure
Shift-lock override location
Near the base of the shifter console on the driver's side, under a small plastic cover—check left side of shifter base or consult owner's manual for exact position on this redesigned generation
With zero electrical power
The mechanical shift lock override works with zero electrical power. You do not need any battery voltage. Simply use the override slot as described to mechanically release the shift lock mechanism and move to N.