🚨 2025 Toyota Yaris: Emergency Neutral
The 2025 Toyota Yaris uses a conventional console-mounted automatic transmission shifter 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
- Set the parking brake firmly
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position if battery has any charge remaining
- Locate the shift lock override slot - it is a small rectangular opening covered by a plastic cap, typically found on the left side of the shifter base near the P position
- Use a flat-blade screwdriver or the metal key blade to carefully pry off the small plastic cap covering the override slot
- Insert the screwdriver or key fully into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal (if power available) and move the shifter to Neutral
- If no power, continue holding the override down while physically moving the shifter to Neutral - moderate force may be required
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular slot with plastic cap, typically located on the left side of the shifter base near Park position - exact location varies by market and trim
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the override slot still functions mechanically. Insert tool into override slot, press down firmly, and shift to Neutral using moderate force. The shift lock is a mechanical override that does not require electrical power to release.