Releasing a Kia Shifter That's Stuck

This bulletin applies to all 2014 and later Kia vehicles. If a no-start condition due to a dead battery is encountered and the shifter cannot be moved out of park in order to move the vehicle, utilize the "shift lock release” button to move the shifter from park to neutral.

Information courtesy of Mitchell 1

Mike Mavrigian

June 10, 2022

Do not try to force the shifter from park by aggressively pulling the shifter. Carefully remove the shift lock release tab using a pick tool. Press and hold the brake pedal. Insert a pick tool into the shift lock release hole and press down on the button inside the hole. While pressing the shift lock button, shift the lever into the neutral position.

With the tab cover removed, and while holding the brake pedal down, use a pick tool to press the shift lock release button.

About the Author

Information courtesy of Mitchell 1

Information for Technical Service Bulletins comes from ProDemand, Mitchell 1's auto repair information software for domestic and import vehicles. Headquartered in San Diego, Mitchell 1 has provided quality repair information solutions to the automotive industry since 1918.

Mike Mavrigian

Motor Age Editor

Mike Mavrigian has written thousands of automotive technical magazine articles involving a variety of specialties, from engine building to wheel alignment, and has authored more than a dozen books that crisscross the automotive spectrum. Mike operates Birchwood Automotive, an Ohio shop that builds custom engines and performs vintage vehicle restorations. The shop also features a professional photo studio to document projects and to create images for articles and books.