🚨 2022 Kia Seltos: Emergency Neutral
The 2022 Kia Seltos uses a traditional console-mounted automatic transmission shifter lever with electronic shift lock.
🧰 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 the parking brake is firmly set
- Turn the ignition to ACC or ON position if any battery power is available
- Locate the shift lock release—there is a small rectangular access cover to the left of the shifter lever base on the console
- Use a flathead screwdriver or similar tool to carefully pry off the access cover
- Insert a flathead screwdriver or key into the exposed override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal (if functional) and shift to Neutral
- If brake does not function, continue holding override and move shifter to Neutral
- Replace the access cover after completing the shift
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular access slot with plastic cover, located to the left of the shifter base on the center console
With zero electrical power
The shift lock override is a mechanical release and will function without any battery power. Simply remove the access cover, insert a tool into the slot, press down to release the lock, and shift to Neutral. No electrical power is required for this mechanical override.