🚨 2022 Hyundai Kona N: Emergency Neutral
The 2022 Kona N uses a traditional console-mounted mechanical shifter with a release button on the handle, standard PRNDM gate pattern with manual mode.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — cross-check against your owner’s manual when possible.
⚠️ Chock the wheels first — neutral means the car can roll. Set the parking brake while you work, never stand downhill of the vehicle, and try a 12-volt jump before any override: power fixes most stuck-in-park problems instantly.
The procedure
- Ensure the vehicle is on a level surface and apply the parking brake firmly
- Insert the key in the ignition and turn to the ACC or ON position (engine does not need to run)
- Press the brake pedal firmly
- Press and hold the release button on the side of the shifter handle
- Move the shifter from Park through Reverse to Neutral
- Verify the instrument cluster shows 'N' and release the parking brake if moving the vehicle
- If the shifter will not move due to a failed brake-light switch or shift interlock, locate the shift-lock override slot—this is a small covered slot in the console trim directly adjacent to the shifter base, typically on the left side (driver's side) of the shifter
- Pry off the small cap covering the override slot with a flathead screwdriver or trim tool
- Insert a screwdriver, key, or similar tool into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, press the shifter button and move to Neutral
- Remove the tool and replace the cover cap
Shift-lock override location
Small covered slot in the console trim to the left (driver's side) of the shifter base; cap must be pried off to access
With zero electrical power
With a completely dead battery, the mechanical shifter will still function using the shift-lock override. Follow the override procedure: pry off the cap near the shifter base, insert a tool into the override slot, press down, and move the shifter to Neutral. No electrical power is required for this mechanical override—the shifter is cable-actuated.