🚨 2017 Kia Optima: Emergency Neutral
The 2017 Optima uses a conventional console-mounted automatic shifter with electronic shift lock controlled by the brake-light switch.
🧰 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 level ground and parking brake is firmly engaged
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position if battery has any charge remaining (push start button without brake pedal)
- Locate the shift-lock override slot—it's a small rectangular opening with a plastic cover cap on the left side of the shifter base, toward the driver's side
- Use a flathead screwdriver or the metal emergency key blade to carefully pry off the plastic cover cap
- Insert the screwdriver or key blade into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override mechanism down, move the shifter from Park to Neutral
- Remove the tool and replace the cover cap
Shift-lock override location
Left side of the shifter base in the center console, covered by a small removable plastic cap
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the shift-lock override is mechanical and will still function without power. However, the electronic steering lock cannot be released without battery power—the steering wheel will remain locked. Vehicle must be transported on a flatbed with all four wheels off the ground or with front wheels on dollies. Do not attempt to steer or tow with front wheels on the ground.