🚨 2016 Kia Cadenza: Emergency Neutral
The 2016 Cadenza uses a conventional console-mounted automatic transmission shifter with electronic shift lock.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — details like the exact override location may vary by trim; verify visually before prying anything.
⚠️ 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
- Turn the ignition to the ACC or ON position if battery power is available
- Locate the shift lock override slot - it is a small rectangular slot with a cover cap located on the left side of the shifter base, toward the driver's side
- Use a flathead screwdriver or the metal key blade to pry off the small cover cap
- Insert the screwdriver or key firmly into the override slot and press down while simultaneously pressing the shifter button and moving the shifter to Neutral
- If successful, the shifter will release from Park without needing the brake pedal depressed
- Keep the override tool inserted and held down until the shifter is fully in Neutral position
Shift-lock override location
Left side of the shifter base near the driver's side, covered by a small rectangular cap
With zero electrical power
With zero electrical power, the shift lock override will still function mechanically. Use the physical key to access the override slot. You will need to manually insert the key into the ignition cylinder (not push-button) and turn to ACC to unlock the steering wheel if you need to steer the vehicle onto a flatbed.