Toyota 2012 Highlander Owner's Manual page 530

5-2. Steps to take in an emergency
If the shift lever cannot be shifted from P
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.
STEP 1
Set the parking brake.
STEP 2
Vehicles without smart key system: Turn the engine switch
to the "ACC" position.
Vehicles with smart key system: Turn the "ENGINE START
STOP" switch to ACCESSORY mode.
STEP 3
Depress the brake pedal.
STEP 4
STEP 5
556
Pry the cover up with a flat-
head screwdriver or equiva-
lent.
Press the shift lock override
button.
The shift lever can be shifted
while the button is pressed.