When trouble arises

If the shift lever cannot be shifted from P (vehicles with an automatic transmission)

~1min read

If the shift lever cannot be shifted with your foot on the brake, 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.

Turn the engine switch to the ACC Set the parking brake.

or ON position. Turn the engine switch to the ACC or ON position.

Depress the brake pedal.

Pry the cover up with a flathead screwdriver or equivalent.

Pry the cover up with a flathead screwdriver or equivalent.

Press the shift lock override button.

Press the shift lock override button.

The shift lever can be shifted while the button is pressed.

Test yourself

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