🚨 2024 Kia Ceed: Emergency Neutral
The 2024 Kia Ceed uses a traditional console-mounted automatic shifter with electronic shift-lock.
✓ Expert-verified by Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — master technicians, 20+ years each.
⚠️ 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
- Set the parking brake firmly and chock the wheels.
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position if battery has any charge remaining.
- Locate the shift-lock override slot: it is a small rectangular cover on the left side of the shifter base, near the P position.
- Use a flathead screwdriver or similar tool to pry off the small cover cap.
- Insert the screwdriver into the override slot and press down firmly while simultaneously pressing the brake pedal (if power available) and moving the shifter out of Park.
- If no power: keep the override pressed down, apply firm pressure to the shifter button, and move the shifter to Neutral without brake pedal input.
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular cover on the left side of the shifter base, adjacent to the P position
With zero electrical power
With zero electrical power, you must hold the override down continuously while manipulating the shifter button and gear selector simultaneously; it may require significant force. The steering wheel will remain locked, so the vehicle must be towed or pushed in a straight line only.