When trouble arises

If the shift lever cannot be shifted from p

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If the shift lever cannot be shifted with your foot on the brake pedal, there may be a problem with the shift lock system (a system to prevent accidental operation of the shift lever). Have the vehicle inspected by your toyota dealer immediately.

The following steps may be used as an emergency measure to ensure that the shift lever can be shifted:
  1. Set the parking brake.
  2. Vehicles without a smart key system: turn the engine switch to the “acc” position.

Vehicles with a smart key system: turn the engine switch to accessory mode.

  • Depress the brake pedal.
  • Pry the cover up with a flathead screwdriver or equivalent tool.
  • To prevent damage to the cover, cover the tip of the screwdriver with a rag.
    Toyota RAV4. If the shift lever cannot be shifted from p

    1. Press the shift lock override button.
    The shift lever can be shifted while the button is pressed.
    Toyota RAV4. If the shift lever cannot be shifted from p

    Test yourself

    A quick Toyota RAV4 quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.