How do you get a 1997 Toyota corolla out of park without turning it on?

Answer 1

Try turning the key to the on position, press on the brake pedal, then move your shifter out of park. Post your results.

If that does not work, you can manually unlock the shifter as follows:

1) On the shifter console, you will notice a small plastic lump just in front of, and slightly to the left of the shift lever. This lump covers the emergency shift lock release button. Pry it off using a knife, flat head screwdriver, or similar tool.

2) You will notice a hole where the plastic cover used to be. Pushing a screwdriver straight down into this hole will press down on the button, and allow you to shift out of park. The ignition key to your corolla is long enough to reach the button if you do not have any tools.

3) You should now be able to shift out of park. You may want to make sure you are firmly pressing the brake pedal, especially if you are on an incline, so that the car doesn't roll away.